West Ham has only contributed £15m towards the £272m conversion costs of the Olympic Stadium, with the taxpayer footing the rest of the bill. Considering the cost to the taxpayer, and the effect of this taxpayer subsidy on competition between clubs, a full public inquiry into the deal is needed.
On top of the minimal conversion contribution, West Ham has been allowed to keep the sale proceeds of their current stadium, valued at £71m. Rental is £2.5m a year, halving should WHU be relegated. Taxpayers will cover the costs of stadium utilities, security, pitch maintenance, goalposts and corner flags - estimated to be worth £1.4m - £2.5m a year. Public money should be used responsibly, and in a way which does not distort the competitiveness of independent sports bodies and businesses.
Over 10,000 signatures have been achieved today alone but it is really important that all football clubs join together to ensure there is an inquiry into this. This level of help for one club alone, at the expense of the tax payer, makes a mockery of fair play and opportunity for all.
Please sign it here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/106355
On top of the minimal conversion contribution, West Ham has been allowed to keep the sale proceeds of their current stadium, valued at £71m. Rental is £2.5m a year, halving should WHU be relegated. Taxpayers will cover the costs of stadium utilities, security, pitch maintenance, goalposts and corner flags - estimated to be worth £1.4m - £2.5m a year. Public money should be used responsibly, and in a way which does not distort the competitiveness of independent sports bodies and businesses.
Over 10,000 signatures have been achieved today alone but it is really important that all football clubs join together to ensure there is an inquiry into this. This level of help for one club alone, at the expense of the tax payer, makes a mockery of fair play and opportunity for all.
Please sign it here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/106355
