Chief executive of London Legacy Development Corporation Lyn Gardner has confirmed that West Ham have seen a £380,000 offer to replace the running track covers at the London Stadium rejected as the organisation look for an annual fee from the Irons.
The Hammers have been involved in the off-field spat with those responsible for managing the former Olympic Stadium for some time, but the six figure fee offered is said to have been turned down on a commercial basis.
Speaking about the Hammers’ offer, Gardner insisted that the opportunities, such as advertising, for the club were greater than the money offered, and instead a fee should be paid every year.
As quoted by the Telegraph, she said: “Given its potential for the club, and their extremely low level of usage fee, we think they should pay not a one off cost but an annual fee. We have said we do not want a one off price but we want a commercial fee and we will bare the capital costs.”
Opinion
This is becoming a farce between the owners of the stadium and the Olympic Park and West Ham. How are the club and their fans ever meant to feel like it is their home when they are unable to make decisions over how it looks and feels? Yes, there have been some features fitted but they are simply temporary and can be taken down as and when other events are held. They are basically in the same position as Tottenham, who are having to borrow Wembley in between leaving White Hart Lane and moving into their new ground, and do all they can to make the national stadium feel like home on a matchday. Unfortunately for the Hammers, this is a long term commitment and the issues those which look like being resolved any time soon. Leaving the Boleyn Ground was an emotional time for all, and the troubles that are going on off the pitch now make you wonder whether it really was in their best interests.