The East London Context

The areas surrounding the Lower Lea Valley are among London's most disadvantaged, but are also home to some of the youngest, most diverse and vibrant communities in the capital.

Hosting the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games will help the area realise its tremendous potential.

The new 500-acre park will transform the physical landscape of the area, providing world-class sports facilities and easy access to the biggest urban park created in Europe for more than 150 years.

The local economy will benefit too - before, during and after the 2012 Games.

The Olympic Park area will generate 11,000 new jobs in sectors as diverse as industry, commerce and education, 7,000 construction jobs, and also jobs in tourism.

Training programmes and volunteering opportunities will improve skills for local people, opening up access to new jobs throughout the capital.

And 9,000 new homes will be created, alongside new schools, health and community facilities. Half of these homes would be designated as affordable housing.

A new generation of Londoners will enjoy access to state-of-the-art sports facilities, from elite Olympians and Paralympians to national and local leagues, and for use by residents.

The Olympic Games aren't just about sport. East London will host athletes and spectators from all over the world, creating unique opportunities to showcase the area and improve education, health and culture.