Planning granted for Olympic sailing venue

Planning has been approved today for the sailing facilities in Weymouth and Portland which will be ready in time for the London 2012 Olympics.

Osprey Quay including the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA), which will host the Olympic and Paralympic Sailing events during the Games, will be regenerated after plans submitted in March following public consultation have been approved by Weymouth & Portland Borough Council today.

The regeneration programme will include a new permanent slipway and more race-boat parking, and lifting and mooring facilities.

Dean & Reddyhoff, developers for the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA), also submitted plans for a new 560-berth commercial marina at Osprey Quay, of which 250 berths will be used during the London 2012 Games.

Both schemes will be completed by the end of 2008, meaning Weymouth and Portland will be one of the first venues ready for the 2012 Games.

Olympic Delivery Authority Director of Property, Ralph Luck, said:

“Securing planning approval is a significant step towards us delivering world-class sailing facilities that will benefit elite athletes and the local community alike before, during and long after the Games.

“Our plans for Weymouth and Portland are an excellent example of how the Games can act as a driver for wider regeneration, spreading sporting, social and economic benefits around the country.”