LDA fires starting gun on Olympics with new panel

The London Development Agency (LDA) has unveiled the results of the most eagerly awaited panel review of the year as it begins the crucial initial development for the 2012 Olympic Games.

A total of 18 law firms have been appointed for a three-year tenure. They are: Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP), Bevan Brittan, Bircham Dyson Bell, DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary, DMH Stallard, Eversheds, Field Fisher Waterhouse, Hammonds, Lawrence Graham, Martineau Johnson, Mills & Reeve, Nabarro Nathanson, Norton Rose, Pinsent Masons, Shoosmiths, Steph-enson Harwood, Trowers & Hamlins and Wragge & Co. Some firms, such as Eversheds, Hammonds and Stephensons, have worked for the LDA previously. It is believed that several others, including BLP and Norton Rose, are celebrating new appointments.

The LDA is responsible for London's economic growth and regeneration. Together with Transport for London, it is acting as the interim Olympic Delivery Agency to manage the initial stages of planning for the 2012 Games.

The tender process has taken a full year. The firms that pitched were informed of the results last Tuesday (29 November). Weighting was given to factors such as value for money and delivery of service.

It is understood that no contracts have yet been signed between the LDA and the successful firms as the rejected firms have the opportunity to appeal the decision because it was a public procurement process.

A seminar for the panel will be held next month to provide more information about which areas the firms are likely to be working in. These will include corporate, projects, real estate, litigation, sustainable development, re-generation and employment.

Work that will be carried out over the next months includes issuing tenders for major design and construction contracts and acquiring the remaining land necessary for the Olympic Park.

The LDA declined to comment.