Concerns about the 2012 Olympics rise as the price sky-rockets to 9bn, 4 times the original figure. 

 

From the moment London was granted the chance to host the Olympic Games, excitement had occurred, but now were regretting it. The Olympics has caused many political quarrels because the initial figure of £2.35bn, outlined by Culture Secretary Tessa, has risen to £9.3bn. Construction is now budgeted at £5.3bn and there is a £2.7bn ‘contingency fund’. Tessa Jowell had suggested taking to get an extra £675m of lottery funds – equivalently, £1 in every £5 money should then go to the Olympics. The Tories attacked her decision, as they did not agree. The price outlined by her largely covers the construction costs of the Olympic venues.

 

I interviewed some teachers about the Olympics, and they seem to have very strong views, Mr Leader reported that ‘Yes, compared to the economy and what It would generate the Olympic price standing at £9bn is worth it.’ He also added, ‘It is possible that the price can rise further, because if you take into account every aspect of things, it won’t go right every time.’ I asked what effect it would have on WES boys and the people of London, he replied, ‘It would definitely encourage WES boys to take on a wide range of sports and on people generally, it would encourage people to take public transport, because it would be regenerated, along with housing.

 

Mr Groves reported that ‘The price is a lot of money, when it could be spent on other things, but it will be worth it if it will improve sports facilities, transport, housing, because East London right now is run down’ In addition to price issues he said, ‘The price will definitely rise, look at the Millennium dome, if the Olympic venues will be like that, it’ll be a waste of money, but if it is like the London Eye, used afterwards, then it would be a success, something of a Legacy.’ He also said, ‘As we get closer to 2012, more boys in WES will become interested in different sports, they might take part in other things apart from football. The effect it would have on London is that it’ll create jobs for people, building, even when its built, and hopefully the sports facilities will be well used after the Olympics. Unfortunately, a lot of people are forced out of the area due to regeneration.’

 

Mr Rourke, A sports teacher reported, ‘It depends who pays for the Olympics, If it’s the people of London, then its not worth the hassle, but if it’s the Government, then yes, either way we’ll earn it back through tourism and many things, and hopefully the price won’t rise any further.’ He also said, ‘It would have a very good effect on WES Boys, maybe some of the boys now could go to the Olympics at the time, we have good fencers, runners, archers. The effect it will have on the people of London is that it will bring a lot of money in, and there will be a huge event happening in London, which hasn’t happened in some time.’