Tottenham, which was joined in its bid by third-tier outfit Leyton Orient, had contested the Olympic Park Legacy Company's verdict that West Ham and Newham Council should move into the venue. However, Judge Mr Justice Davis has decided there are no grounds for a review. “We are pleased with the ruling and continue to make good progress in our negotiations with the preferred bidder in order to be in a position to agree the final terms for the stadium's lease,” stated the Olympic Park Legacy Company.
Newham Council, which has arranged a £40 million loan to finance West Ham's move to the stadium, said: “We are continuing to focus on securing a lasting legacy for the stadium and, together with West Ham United, are progressing well with the Olympic Park Legacy Company on bringing the matter to a commercial and financial close.”
West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady added: “We hope we can now focus all our energy and passion on delivering a fantastic multi-use Olympic Stadium for the whole nation. We were honoured to be unanimously chosen as preferred bidder by the Olympic Park Legacy Company.”
Brady continued: “Their decision, after a robust and diligent process, was subsequently backed by the Mayor of London and government. Our vision...remains for a globally-recognised destination for all, with community at its core, capable of hosting world-class sporting events, including top-level football and athletics.” However, a statement from Tottenham insisted the club would continue to hold talks with “local and national government bodies” to seek a “feasible stadium solution”.
