Once known as the London Olympics Media Centre, Here East stands as a testament to transformation. Today, we will explore how this media hub evolved into a thriving innovation campus.
During the 2012 London Olympics, Here East was the heart of global broadcasting. Imagine over 20,000 broadcasters, photographers, and journalists buzzing around. They were transmitting the games to 4 billion people worldwide. It was a 24-hour media frenzy.
The complex included the International Broadcast Centre IBC and the Main Press Centre MPC. Allies and Morrison designed the 275-metre-long building. The construction cost a staggering 355 million pounds. Carillion completed the project in July 2011.
Originally, private funding was intended for the complex. However, the 2008 economic crisis made this impossible. The Olympic Delivery Authority stepped in to publicly fund the project. This ensured the media centre’s completion for the games.
After the Olympics, the challenge was to repurpose this massive complex. Delancey, a property firm, partnered with Infinity SDC. Their goal was to convert the media centre into a technology hub. This joint venture was initially called iCity. Laing O’Rourke was appointed to carry out the 150 million pounds redevelopment.
Buro Happold provided the engineering design. They collaborated with architects HawkinsBrown. The aim was to create 84,000 square meters of business space. This would contribute to the legacy of the Olympic Games.
BT Sport was among the first to move in. They broadcast from Here East starting in August 2013. They had three studios here until their rebranding in July 2023. In February 2014, iCity was renamed Here East. This marked a new chapter for the complex.
Here East became a hub for education and innovation. Loughborough University and University College London established campuses here. Plexal, a co-working space, opened its doors to start-up businesses.
Today, Here East is home to diverse tenants. These include Barratt London, Scope, and Sports Interactive. Studio Wayne McGregor, Teesside University, and V&A East also have a presence.
Here East exemplifies London’s ability to adapt and innovate. From Olympic media centre to tech hub, its transformation is remarkable. The complex continues to drive growth and collaboration in East London. As we conclude our visit to Here East, consider the power of legacy and the enduring spirit of innovation that defines this unique place.