Annex 25
Letter, 11 May 2001, from Sport England
to the Permanent Secretary, DCMS
WEMBLEY NATIONAL STADIUM
I am writing to you in connection with the new
National Stadium Project, particularly in the light of recent
press reports.
As you will appreciate, Sport England remain
concerned to ensure that, if at all possible, the Project can
go ahead, and that the purposes of its grant can be fulfilled
by the construction and operation of a National Stadium. Of course,
Sport England will wish to support any sensible proposals which
may come forward to achieve this objective. Nevertheless, in conducting
any review, it is essential that appropriate regard is had to
the effect of any proposals on the likelihood (or otherwise) of
Sport England, as independent distributor, being able, either
legally or practically, to recover the Lottery Grant (which is
tied up in the Wembley site) in the event that the project is,
in fact, a failure.
With this in mind, I would be very grateful
if you would confirm to me that the review process will take this
into account and will be fully open to Sport England, so that
they can take appropriate steps both to promote the project, whilst
protecting the Lottery Grant. Sport England is certainly supportive
of the current initiative, and believe it has the necessary expertise
to assist in the process.
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