Tottenham challenge West Ham for Olympic Stadium
Up until yesterday West Ham had been the frontrunners to occupy the Olympic Stadium in east London, but last night Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy confirmed that the club have also registered an interest in the 2012 London games’ landmark arena.
"I can confirm we have registered an interest in the Olympic Stadium site within the deadline of 30 September, in conjunction with AEG (Europe), the world's largest entertainment and facilities management company," Levy said in a statement on the club’s website.
"It is only prudent and good management that we ensure that we investigate all possible options for the club. We were informed by the Olympic Park Legacy Company that were we not to register an interest at this time, there would not be an opportunity at any future date."
Spurs are still intent on building their own separate stadium – named the Northumberland Development Project - and yesterday evening plans were approved by Haringey Council. However, as there was still potential for problems to arise in the near future, Levy ensured that the club would not miss out on a chance to occupy the Olympic Stadium as back up.
"Clearly we are delighted with this unanimous decision and are grateful to all those who expressed such clear support for the plans," Levy added.
"I should stress that there is still much work to be done. We shall continue to work with Haringey Council and the application will now be considered by the Mayor of London and referred to the Secretary of State."
There had been speculation over whether Spurs would officially register their interest in the Olympic Stadium in Stratford, but now they have, West Ham will be hoping that their Premier League rivals’ plans for their first-choice stadium are approved.
The Hammers are desperate to move from Upton Park to the 60,000-capacity stadium in east London after the Olympics and still appear favourites after delivering their bid to 10 Downing Street yesterday.
But thanks for Levy’s influence, Spurs have ensured that their name is in the frame.
"We have always maintained that we wouldn't undertake any project that could undermine the overall financial stability and future success of the club and this shall remain our guiding principle going forward and in determining our best option in the interests of the club and all its fans and stakeholders," Levy said.
"We shall keep everyone connected with the club updated over the coming months as discussions continue with the various public sector bodies."
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