MPs and chiefs from the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and CLM, which will manage the design and construction of the 202ha Olympic Park, were among the 50-strong gathering at Portcullis House, which also included executives from leading timber companies.
Twin video screens scrolled the aims of the campaign and images of landmark timber buildings while shadow agricultural and rural affairs minister James Paice told the throng he was “passionate” about using timber as a long-term construction product and anxious to see its use wherever possible.
“We have serious ambitions when it comes to using timber and wood products in the games,” added Dr Peter Bonfield, ODA leader of construction products. “We are looking to become the first significant project to capitalise on the hard work of the timber industry.”
He expressed confidence in the industry’s capacity to deliver and expected approved suppliers to sign their first contracts within the next three months
Dr Bonfield that predicted sustainable timber use for the Games could have wider impact, such as in other projects within Greater London Authority area.
But he made clear that the ODA could not control the design of venues and what products were used.
