Olympic teams land in London

The Games Lanes have officially opened across the nation's capital as athletes for London 2012 arrive from Heathrow airport.

14:30 16 July 2012

The Games Lanes have officially opened across the nation's capital as athletes for London 2012 arrive from Heathrow airport. 

 

The news of the Olympic hopefuls' arrivals come at a time when serious security concerns have been expressed by the government, armed forces and media. 

 

BAA stated that it expects around 335 athletes to arrive at Heathrow airport during the day, along with 1027 'Games Family' members.

 

But that's nothing compared to what's to come: BAA estimates that the busiest day for arriving athletes will be July 24, when 1,262 athletes and coaches are expected as part of 3,008 Games Family arrivals. 

 

A special lane on the M4 has been opened, from 5am to 10pm, to cope with the increased traffic. 

 

The M4 is a key part of the ORN (Olympic Route Network) running from Heathrow airport to the Olympic Village in Stratford, east London. This route is expected to be used by 80% of the Games Family arrivals. 

 

A further 30 miles of Games Lanes will become fully operational on July 25th, which is two days before the opening ceremony. 

 

Those living in London or travelling to the capital are advised to check their route and be advised that a penalty charge of £130 is in effect for those who stray into the lanes during their usage time (this does not include overnight). Meanwhile, illegally parked cars and bikes will be removed to a pound with a release fee of £200.