West Ham United: Olympic Stadium ‘will exceed fans’ expectations’

West Ham United vice-chairman Karren Brady believes the club’s move into the Olympic Stadium in Stratford will deliver a ground that “exceeds” supporters’ expectations.

The Hammers were confirmed as the anchor tenants of the Stratford arena in March and hope to move into the new ground in time for the start of the 2016-17 season.

Plans for the £150m conversion of the stadium were given the go-ahead at a planning meeting in Stratford on Tuesday, with the arena set to be transformed into a 60,000-seat venue which can be upgraded to a capacity of 80,000 for concerts.

The approved plans will now be referred to mayor of London Boris Johnson for final ratification before work can get under way later this year.

“This is another key milestone on our journey to Stratford and my board and I are delighted with the decision,” said Brady.

“We always knew that the innovative plans for the Olympic Stadium could create a globally-recognised football stadium and we were confident that planning permission would be granted to allow the conversion work to begin.

“For me and my team the hard work is only just beginning. This is an incredible opportunity to create a world-class stadium for West Ham supporters that will exceed their expectations and the chance to really deliver a lasting legacy for London.”

West Ham have confirmed plans to upgrade the arena to a 54,000 all-seater Uefa category 4 ground, the highest category of football stadium possible.

The multi-purpose venue will also host Rugby World Cup matches in 2015 and the 2017 World Athletics Championships.