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The games and beyond
The RIBA's Sports Forum, in collaboration with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, organised a one-day symposium on the design and construction of large scale sports stadia and campuses. The objective of the event was to discover the opportunities, whilst highlighting the benefits, of the UK hosting major sporting events such as the Olympic Games. Speakers included David Higgins, Chief Executive of the Olympic Delivery Authority, Rod Sheard, HOK Sport architecture and Sue Riddlestone, Director of Bio Regional|.
 
Keynote speaker David Higgins described 2012 as an asset and a catalyst for change. The games is seen as an opportunity to confront social and economic challenges facing the Lower Lea Valley, one of the most deprived areas in the UK. With life expectancy in the area being approximately seven years less than other areas of London, the authority is keen to play a part in reducing recorded levels of heart disease, diabetes and mental health problems. Advances will be made through encouraging active sports and providing public services as part of the legacy. An Olympic task force, set up by the London Developing Agency, will help oversee the area's transformation. News on the appointment of Olympic partners will be announced over the coming months.
 
The afternoon debate highlighted the many concerns of stakeholders such as the sustainable use of temporary buildings, transportation and climate change. For many delegates, government investment in sports academies, community services and schools is needed to develop a sports culture. Procurement remains a concern for young and inexperienced architects fearful of being excluded from the OJEU process and many championed the idea of smaller practices working as a collective on large sports projects. 
 

 
Programme
Welcome/ Introduction
 
Sunand Prasad
RIBA Vice President and Chair of Policy and Strategy Group
Prof Geraint John
RIBA Sports Forum Convenor
 
Keynote Address
David Higgins
Chief Executive of the Olympic Delivery Authority
 
Design of stadia and large public sport facilities
Rod Sheard
Senior Principal HOK Sports Architecture
Presentation will be available shortly
 
Finance infrastructure
Transport and crowd flow
Roy McGowan
Steer Davies Gleave 







Sustainability
Sue Riddlestone
Director Bio Regional