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Work has begun to improve London’s walking and cycle network ahead of the 2012 Olympics, starting with the Greenway.
The 2.3km stretch of cycleway that links the Olympic Park to Victoria Park and West Ham is set to be widened and resurfaced.
Materials used to construct the network are largely recycled and the route will see trees and bushes planted alongside the path.
Olympic Delivery Authority Chief Executive David Higgins said: "These improvements will open up this important walking and cycling path to thousands more people before, during and after the London 2012 Games. Wildflowers and native bushes and trees along the Greenway will also create new habitats for wildlife and create a greener space for people."
During the Games the Greenway will be utilised by spectators arriving at the Olympic Park from West Ham station or the planned cycle parking in Victoria Park. In legacy the Greenway, which runs for 7km from Victoria Park to Beckton, will connect with the Mayor’s East London Green Grid, a network of green space, footpaths and cycle paths which are being developed, by TFL and partner delivery authorities, across east London and through the Lea Valley.
The Duke of Gloucester recently cycled along a stretch of the Greenway that overlooks the Olympic Park to launch plans for the new 60km Jubilee Walkway Trust, and underlined the importance of walking and cycling to events as part of the London 2012.
