LUCA has submitted plans to build a new athletics stadium in the heart of London.
The outdoor stadium will be the centrepiece of a major new athletics complex which will include an indoor 200m track, strength and conditioning gym, swimming pool and a variety of bars and restaurants.
Members of LUCA affiliated clubs will be able to use the facilities for free. UKA Athletics have already expressed interest in using the training facilities.
The stadium itself will boast a capacity of 67,000, placing it in direct competition with London Stadium for major events. It is also understood that current London Stadium tenants, West Ham FC, are interested in moving to the new LUCA stadium, following two dismal seasons at the former Olympic stadium.
Speaking at exclusively to the BBC, LUCA President James Findon said “We were facing ever rising venue hire for our events. At a certain point, it’s just cheaper to build your own stadium.”
Construction costs for the complex are an estimated £700 Million. Findon said entry fees wont be increased to help pay for it.
“We are committed to keeping entry fees low. We are planning on holding a raffle at the end of the final outdoor meet. That should raise a few bob.”
The athletics community has reacted with praise for LUCA’s initiative. IAAF president, Seb Coe even hinted at using the stadium for a major event in the future.
The stadium will be used for all LUCA Outdoor fixtures. It is hoped that the stadium will attract top talent, including Usain Bolt who said last year that “the one that means the most to me is missing. I want a LUCA medal”.
The stadium is due to be completed for April 1st 2020.
