Transport for LondonOlympic authority passes TfL the baton
The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) said that as preparations are moving from a planning phase to one of implementation, 'it is the right time to hand over the baton to TfL'.
TfL will now oversee the delivery of:
- The Olympic Route Network and Paralympic Route Network inside London - a concept picked up in Sydney at the 2000 Games. These dedicated routes link all competition and key non-competition venues
- The London 2012 Travel Demand Management programme. This will ensure that the transport network can operate effectively by influencing people's travel behaviour
- The London Road Freight Management programme, which will ensure the efficient and safe movement of freight at Games time
ODA Chief Executive, Dennis Hone, said: 'Staging the Olympic and Paralympic Games is a huge logistical challenge and transport is vital to making it work.
'As we progress to the operational stage, we are on track and it is the right time to hand over the baton to TfL who will be responsible for the coordination and delivery of transport during the Games.'
TfL will lead on transport issues in the Capital during the Games and is already responsible for a number of key programmes.
With less than 18 months until the opening ceremony, TfL says the transfer of these additional responsibilities will further enhance the integration of all London 2012 transport, 'ensuring all athletes, officials and spectators can get to their events on time, while keeping London and the UK moving'.
Transport Commissioner Peter Hendy said: 'All London 2012 transport improvements are on track and Londoners are already benefiting from this early Games legacy.
'Now, as we turn our focus to operational delivery, it makes sense for TfL to take on responsibility for the Olympic and Paralympic Route Networks, Travel Demand Management and London Road Freight programmes and ensure there's an integrated approach to the planning and management of all London 2012 transport.'
Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: 'I am conscious that not only is this an unparalleled opportunity; but also that we have a responsibility to ensure London functions as smoothly and efficiently as possible during the Games for the great people who live, work and play here.'
