It is one of a series of measures agreed by London 2012 organisers to try to appease local residents who are against the Royal Park, which history dates back to the 15th century and was a favourite hunting ground of Henry VIII, being used during the Games because they fear that it will damage it.

Under the news plans unveiled by London 2012 at a meeting of the Greenwich Societies at the Blackheath Halls, the Park will now only be closed from July 6 to August 3, a much shorter period than the original proposal for it to be shut for up to eight weeks.

They also plan to keep open the children's playground and the majority of the Park's Flower Garden during this period, apart from when the cross country event is being held during the Olympics.

London 2012 have also agreed that Circus Field in Blackheath will be used as an operational compound to avoid the need for large vehicle access the Park, enabling access from the A2 to the Park, which  covers 74 hectares (180 acres) and is part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site.

This will cause less disruption and impact to the Park itself, officials claimed.

London 2012 is also discussing with The Royal Parks ways of upgrading the children’s playground and other parts of the Park as a legacy after the Games.

It is also working with The Royal Parks on protective measures for the Park and with ecological experts on designing a cross country course which will not adversely affect any trees.

They have promised that no trees will have to be cut down.

Paul Deighton, the chief executive of London 2012, said: "We believe that Greenwich Park will be a stunning venue in 2012 but we understand the concerns that local residents may have about usage of the Park during the Games.

"We are grateful to the Greenwich Societies for organising the meeting and giving us a chance to listen to their concerns and explain our plans in more detail.

"This is an ongoing process of dialogue; we want to work with local residents so we can address concerns and make the Games a fantastic experience for everyone."


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