Cycling Weekly, together with the Eastway Users Group, is encouraging people to reject the Olympic Park Legacy Company's (OPLC) "alternative" plans for London's Velopark.
The OPLC's proposals for the former Eastway site were heavily criticised at a public meeting in Bethnal Green last week, but could ultimately be built unless people speak up against it.
A scheme developed by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) - which has planning permission, secure funding and an operator to build the facility in time for a May 2013 opening - was designed in co-operation with the Eastway Users Group (EUG).
This compares to the OPLC's bid, which has never been discussed with those who used to race at Eastway, and question marks remain over its opening date.
However, we still have time to offer our opinions on the OPLC's scheme. Comments can be sent to the ODA Planning Decisions team, but need to be submitted quickly as the closing date is this Monday (April 11).
How to submit your comments
To submit your comments on the OPLC's proposals, email the ODA Planning Decisions team.
The EUG is urging people to reject the scheme on grounds of amenity, consultation, environment, inclusiveness and transportation as it affects them in doing their sport.
It is advisable that these references are cited in any correspondence:
11/90142/FULODA for the north-west parklands from which the approved scheme is being 'removed'
OR
11/90114/FUMODA for the OPLCs Velopark
OPLC defend their scheme
The OPLC told CW this morning: "We are seeking planning consent for an alternative cycle circuit route in order to improve public access to one of the most picturesque parts of the future Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
"The change will open up a section of land in the north-west where people will be able to enjoy a larger amount of quality parkland, bordered by crescent housing and a river Lea.
"Securing a fantastic cycling legacy is crucial to the Park's success and we have been working with Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, the ODA and cycling groups to create an alternative route that fulfils the same design criteria as the existing scheme.
"We are seeking planning consent by summer 2011 in order to meet the existing deadlines for opening."
Further information
Michael Humphreys, the EUG's chairman, told CW: "The appalling details of the OPLC scheme show complete disregard for the sport and the people who do it.
"Now we can only count on number of objections and numbers really do count."
If you need any information or guidance, email the EUG
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