2004 boxing venue moves to Peristeri
The organizers of the Athens 2004 Olympics said yesterday that a deal had been signed in Lausanne with the International Boxing Federation, AIBA, for the construction of the Olympiad’s boxing arena in Peristeri, western Athens. The venue was originally slated for Neo Faliron. A large percentage of funds for the new 8,400-capacity complex will come from the state-operated Public Investments Program. Tender procedures should be completed by October. The venue’s new premises, organizers said, is conveniently located, as it will be serviced by two Metro stations – Sepolia and Aghios Antonios, the latter under construction – and will be close to the Olympic Village. The original plan had envisaged a 70-year leasing deal which would have granted the developer of the International Section – bars, restaurants, etc – operational rights following the Games. But the Labor Ministry’s Public Housing Organization (OEK), owner of the location, has now excluded this perk from the offer. Tender procedures for the Olympic Village’s International Section are expected to be completed by December.
