University of sport to be created in Olympic Park

A research centre specialising in sports medicine and technology is to be built in the Olympic Park after the 2012 Games.

It will be linked with universities such as Imperial and University College London as well as those that excel in sports nationally such as Loughborough and Bath.

The 9,000 students and researchers will be able to capitalise on the Olympic sports facilities and the digital equipment put in place for the media centre.

The aim is to create a "centre for research and learning" in east London which will have links with international companies. However, it will be "to all intents and purposes a university".

No funding has yet been agreed but options include money from the universities involved or major sports companies such as adidas.

It is also hoped the facility will act as a catalyst for regenerating east London and create jobs.

Mayor Boris Johnson said: "I am absolutely committed to making this proposal a top political priority."

Games planners have earmarked a site to the south of the media centre in Hackney Wick. The Mayor is also considering Pudding Mill. Mr Johnson and the Government are consulting on the bid until the end of next month.