14 Mar 2012

London transport bosses dismiss fears of strike during Games

7:47 am on 14 March 2012

London transport bosses dismissed fears of a strike on the underground train network during this year's Olympics saying they're confident a deal can be struck that would avoid chaos for commuters and sports fans.

However, transport bosses are still in dispute with three boroughs who object to restrictions on the Olympic Route Network, something organisers must implement to ferry officials, the media and others between venues and hotels.

Transport is a major concern for organisers, having to deal with narrow streets that are typically clogged with traffic and a creaking underground system overcrowded during peak times.

Organisers are desperate to avoid the stigma that has dogged the 1996 Atlanta Games after some athletes failed to arrive for their events on time because of transport woes.

Deals have already been struck with workers on the overground, rail network and the key Olympic artery the Docklands Light Railway.

The boroughs, in response to an official consultation, argue the ORN could cause congestion for businesses and restrict residents.

Host cities have to agree to an ORN as part of its contract with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).