The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has set out ten new community commitments to help reduce the impact of construction activity on the surrounding community as work on the Olympic Park moves forward into the 'big build' phase.

The commitments include ensuring there are effective communication channels available for residents living and working around the Park. A free hotline service is available 24 hours a day for anyone that has any concerns regarding activity on and around the site.

All workers and visitors to the Park will also be strongly encouraged to travel by public transport, reducing congestion on local roads and the ODA is committed to actively recycling and reusing construction materials, reducing the amount of waste taken away from site.

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The commitments were made at the first Olympic Park Engagement Network (OPEN) meeting - a new group which will bring together representatives from different parts of the community to meet with senior members of the ODA team. David Higgins, ODA Chief Executive, also hosted a tour for the local community groups from the local boroughs of Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest.

Mr Higgins said: "The Games will deliver many positive benefits to the local community, some are already being realised with jobs and business opportunities. A fifth of workers on site live locally to the Olympic Park.

"We also want to ensure we are a good neighbour and that the Park is a safe and secure environment for both workers on site and the local community living close by. Establishing the OPEN group is a great way for us to meet with local people and discuss any concerns they may have about the project."

(CD/JM)