The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) have announced the search for a contractor for one of the last major construction opportunities on the Olympic Park.

Over 150 businesses attended a packed ODA Industry Day on Tuesday to hear the ODA's plans for the Handball Arena and details of how they can compete for the contract.

The Handball Arena will host Handball during the Olympic Games and Goalball during the Paralympic Games. In legacy the Arena will become a multi-sports venue with the flexible seating capacity and facilities necessary to hold a wide range of indoor sports training and local to international competition and events.

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The design team, Make Architects with PTW and Ove Arup and Partners are currently progressing with concept designs for the handball area.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: "We are looking for a contractor to build a Handball Arena that enhances the experience for Handball and Goalball athletes during the London 2012 Games and leaves a lasting sporting and community legacy.

"The multi-sports legacy of the Handball Arena will cater for indoor sports ranging from Basketball and Handball to Badminton and Gymnastics boosting the sporting facilities provided in the legacy Olympic Park at the Velopark, Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Eton Manor complex."

The ODA expects to appoint a design and build contractor for the Handball Arena in early 2009 ready for construction to start around the middle of next year.

(JM)