So, London gets it. I was against it, but now I feel strangely pleased.
I think I was for it at first; I really enjoyed watching the Athens Olympics last summer, the kids enjoyed it, and the idea of having one just down the road sounded great. But then I looked at the plans, and turned against it. The main reason for my opposition was the effects that I think it will have on the Lower Lea (or Lee) Valley. As far as I can tell, our beloved wilderness will be turned into bland parkland, with the associated loss of wildlife habitat.
However, it may not be as bad as all that, and there’s no doubt that the potential regeneration here in East London — in particular the transport improvements — could be great.
My other concern is, of course, the cost, and how we taxpayers may be paying for it for decades.
But what the hell: my kids will be 15 and 11 in 2012, so it should be fantastic for them.
I have mixed feelings about it, I think if it’s done well it could be great for London, but only if it’s done well, and the cost does worry me too.
Selfishly, I have to wonder what it will do for my flat’s price, I’m really not far from Stratford.
Yes, I have similar feelings on the house prices. Various people commenting on various posts on my FL are speculating about the possibility of renting their properties out during the event. Which certainly works for some Wimbledon residents.
But aren’t you kind of on the other side of the river from Stratford? Though with the improved transport links that probably won’t matter. And in fact, I suppose you can just pop through the Blackwall Tunnel. Which could become a very crowded conduit.
Yup, but the DLR goes straight to Stratford from Lewisham, which is very close. I imagine there’ll be a knock on effect.
I’m planning on selling up and moving to Islington next year though, so I’m not sure what effect it will have had by then.