The Information Commissioner has ruled that the financial details of West Ham United's move to the Olympic Stadium must be made public, rejecting claims of commercial confidentiality by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) and the club.
The LLDC, tasked with overseeing the long-term use of the London 2012 site, and West Ham had argued that the deal, which involves a largely taxpayer-funded stadium, should remain private. However, the Information Commissioner's decision follows a Freedom of Information request and a campaign by supporters' groups.
West Ham will pay an annual rent of approximately £2.5 million under a 99-year lease starting next season. The conversion cost of the stadium is £272 million, with West Ham contributing only £15 million. The club declined to comment but is understood to be disappointed with the ruling.
A coalition of supporters' trusts has called on London Mayor Boris Johnson not to appeal the decision and to publish the contract. The coalition stated, 'The Information Commissioner's decision could not have been clearer... We call on the mayor not to use the appeal system to delay publication.'
The LLDC expressed disappointment, saying the ruling could damage their ability to secure the best deal for taxpayers in future negotiations. West Ham could also appeal against the decision.
