One of the masterminds behind the construction of the Channel Tunnel was today put in charge of building venues and facilities for the London 2012 Olympics.
Jack Lemley, who ran the Anglo-French group that designed and built the £8bn Channel Tunnel, was named as the head of the new Olympic Delivery Authority.
From 1989 to 1993 he was chief executive of Transmanche Link, a consortium of five French and five British construction companies which designed and built the “Chunnel.”
Welcoming Mr Lemley’s 2012 appointment, Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said:
“This is a big job. It’s one of the biggest business challenges in the world and one of the biggest jobs in the construction industry.
“I am delighted to welcome Jack Lemley to the 2012 team as chair of the ODA.
“He will bring a wealth of experience to the task of preparing the ground for the biggest sporting event in the world to come to London.”
Mr Lemley met Ms Jowell and Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott this week.
Ms Jowell said:
“What impressed us most about Jack was his track record of delivering massive and complex projects such as the Channel Tunnel and the way he turned around its fortunes.
“This was coupled with a clear vision of how to ensure success for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 and a lasting legacy, to which he is deeply committed.”
References: EGi News 18/11/05
