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2012 aquatic centre controversy continues
The uncertainty surrounding the proposed aquatic centre for the 2012 Olympics has continued, after the project's architect, Zaha Hadid, claimed that Tessa Jowell's £75m budget is unrealistic.
Speaking to Building Design magazine, a spokesman for Hadid said that the £75m figure targeted by Jowell would only cover the construction costs of the venue, not the professional fees or further contingencies.
It has been suggested that the total cost could be closer to £116m.
The tension between the project team and the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has been growing since Tessa Jowell told the designers to make changes to their original plans due to concerns about escalating costs.
The chief executive of the Amateur Swimming Assocation (ASA), David Sparkes, has also joined the debate, arguing that the "specification for the pool in Games and legacy modes is absolutely non negotiable."
The DCMS has reiterated its commitment to deliver the facilities as illustrated in the bid candidature file, but would not comment further on Hadid's new figures.