North Greenwich Arena 2

The North Greenwich Arena 2 is located in Southeast London next door to another Olympic venue, the North Greenwich Arena 1, which was previously referred to as the O2. The second North Greenwich Arena is next door to the first arena along the shore of the Greenwich Peninsula. The venue will host the sitting volleyball events for the Paralympics as well as the rhythmic gymnastics and badminton portions of the 2012 Olympics.

The Venue

The North Greenwich Arena 2 is a portable venue that is to be located adjacent to the North Greenwich Arena 1. Up to 6,000 spectators will be able to attend the events being held here. The arena is close enough to the other Olympic venues that it is easy to watch other sports competitions as well. Construction on the building is set to start by the end of 2009 and should be completed in time for testing. When the Paralympics are over, the arena will be dismantled and moved to another community in the UK that is in need of an arena.

The Events at the North Greenwich Arena 2

For the 2012 Olympics, the North Greenwich Arena 2 will be the site of two main competitions. Approximately 86 men and 86 women will compete in badminton at the venue in an attempt to claim one of five available gold medals. Rhythmic gymnastics will also play out at the North Greenwich Arena 2.

Travelling to the North Greenwich Arena 2

Public transportation will be the most efficient and convenient way to travel to the North Greenwich Arena 2. The arena is linked via the North Greenwich Arena 1 (the O2) to all of the available forms of transportation in London. To travel by underground, take the Jubilee Line from anywhere in the city until it arrives at the North Greenwich Station right at the North Greenwich Arena 1. The National Rail, busses, trams, and coaches also have pick up and drop off points a short distance away. The Thames Clipper, a high-speed boat, operates in conjunction with the Greenwich Arenas and has several docking points along London's waterways.

A number of travel options are available for those who choose to forgo public transportation as well. Taxis will take booked appointments to eliminate wait times for spectators, and there are 2,000 parking spaces that can be reserved for motorists. To drive to the North Greenwich Arena 2, follow the A2/A220 from the southeast or the M11 from the north side of London. A walk along the water is a relaxing way to travel to the arena, and, for cyclists, there are approximately 5,000 stands to park your bike when you arrive.

Conveniently situated in the Olympic River Zone, the North Greenwich Arena 2 gives spectators the perfect opportunity to watch the badminton and gymnastics events. Its proximity to the North Greenwich Arena 1 gives visitors a variety of transportation options. Best of all, competitions at this arena can be combined with other events and 2012 Olympic competitions, giving spectators the ultimate Olympic experience.