It is where the action will take place, including the opening and closing ceremonies plus the track and field competitions.

Two years into the stadium construction, the centre of the showpiece £537 million venue has been cleared so builders can focus on creating the right ground conditions for competition. Ducts and a drainage system are being installed ahead of the turf and track being laid next year.

The first batch of seats, which are black and white and to be fitted this summer, is now in production.

John Armitt, the chairman of ODA, said: "Only two years ago, the stadium site was a flat piece of ground.

"A huge amount has been achieved since then, with the venue now structurally complete and at its full height.

"Work is progressing on covering the roof and the first seats will be fitted this summer.

"The continuing progress means the stadium is still on track to be completed a whole year before the 2012 Games."

Over 4,500 reinforced concrete foundation columns have been installed, 12,000 pre-cast concrete seating terracing units are in place and the 450-tonne cable net roof structure has been positioned.

All five bridges and their abutments, connecting the stadium island to the rest of the Olympic Park in Stratford have also been constructed and work has begun to fit out the 700 rooms and spaces within the stadium, including fitting toilets and tiling showers in the changing rooms.

The 14 lighting towers, which sit 60 metres above the field of play, are also in place.

Sebastian Coe, the chairman of London 2012, said: "In 2012, we will see 2,000 international athletes in the stadium competing in some of the most exciting sporting events and we will also watch opening and closing ceremonies that will showcase London and the UK.

"The stadium will leave an inspirational legacy and we hope the whole Games-time experience will reach young people throughout the world and encourage them to take up sport."


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