To follow the progress of the lead-up to the completion of the many sites, Maldon U3A have an "Interest Group" run by Mary Burd.
A number of coach outings have been organised from Maldon to visit the Viewtube to look at the Stadium etc.
Coordinator:- Mary Burd and Paul Costa.
THE LEE VALLEY OLYMPIC TOUR - Thursday, 24th March 2011
As our previous trip in December had been cancelled due to snow, we were very pleased to be going this time on a beautiful, sunny Spring day. We had a very good journey to Broxbourne, where our Blue Badge guide, Doug, was waiting. He was to be with us for the rest of the day.
Canal at the Lee Valley
We were able to board our boat straight away and had a lovely 90-minute cruise on the Lee Navigation, through the lovely countryside of the Lee Valley Park.
The boat on the Lee Valley Canal
During our trip we were served with tea, coffee and delicious Danish pastries. Meanwhile, Doug was keeping us well informed about the area and its involvement with the Olympics.
On disembarking the boat, we again boarded the coach for a drive to Waltham Abbey. During the journey we passed the White Water Centre, which is being opened to the public ahead of the Games. We were told that this is the most expensive centre to be built for just one sport. When we arrived at Waltham Abbey, we had sufficient time to go to one of the many eating places to obtain lunch.
After lunch, we proceeded with our journey to the Olympic site. This was a very pleasant ride, going through Epping Forest, with Doug pointing out places of interest on the way. When we arrived, we took the short walk to the Olympic Park Viewing Point, where our Guide pointed out the various arenas and buildings and it was very pleasing to see a 500-acre derelict site, being re-generated.
The "Pringle" Velodrome - for cycling
We were told to achieve this there had to be a compulsory purchase and 100 businesses had to be relocated. We were pleased to hear that progress is ahead of schedule.
The main Olympic Stadium from the ViewTube
So much thought has also been given as to its future use, which helped us secure the bid. Another point in our favour was the development of the transport system, as most sites designated for the various games are within 45 minutes of Stratford International Station. After leaving the Site, we drove to the ExCel Centre, where we were able to obtain refreshments before our journey home.
The "ExCel Centre - for Boxing, Wrestling and Gym events
Close-up of the party outside the "ExCel Centre.
It was a most enjoyable and informative day and we learnt so much about the bid, the procurement of the land, sponsors and the many aspects that were involved in this vast undertaking.
Our many thanks to Mary & Paul for arranging this most interesting and enjoyable day – they even managed to lay on such lovely weather!
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© Maldon U3A 2011
Last revised:
18 April 2011 to create this page.
19th April - corrected minor errors.