A GLASGOW-BASED construction firm has been awarded a contract to build one of the main venues for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

By Daniel Bach

A GLASGOW-BASED construction firm has been awarded a contract to build one of the main venues for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Barr Construction is set to begin work on the main structure of the Basketball Arena, which will be the third largest venue used at the Games.

The contract was awarded by the Olympic Delivery Authority, which has now awarded contracts to 30 Scottish companies overall.

ODA chairman John Armitt said: "We want to work with the best in British businesses to deliver the venues.

"I'm delighted that another contract has been awarded to a Scottish company, demonstrating that the Games are benefiting the whole nation."

Glasgow-based firm The Miller Partnership is under contract to review the technical standards of venues, while Euro Pools PLC, also from Glasgow, will provide treatment for the pools at the Aquatics Centre.

Tessa Jowell, Minister for the Olympics, said: "Just as Scottish athletes like Chris Hoy are a key part of Team GB, Scottish businesses like Barr Construction are playing a key role in building the Olympic Park."

The temporary Basketball Arena will seat 12,000 fans for basketball and handball events, and 10,000 fans for wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby events during the Paralympic Games.

It will also be a gathering point for athletes prior to the opening and closing ceremonies at the Olympic Stadium.

The chief executive of Scottish Enterprise Jack Perry said the opportunity of working on key Olympic venues will give Scottish firms the experience and credibility to tender similar contracts in the future.

Mr Perry said: "With all eyes now focused on the Games in London in 2012, we have a real chance for Scottish companies of all sizes, with relevant skills and expertise, to demonstrate what they can do for large scale projects on an international stage.

"The opportunities are also a tremendous launch platform for companies hoping to be involved in the Commonwealth Games in 2014."

A finalised design for the area will be completed by October 2009, where Barr will commence construction early next year.