Greenwich Council's Planning Committee last night approved the temporary use of land at Greenwich Park, the National Maritime Museum, the Old Royal Naval College and Blackheath Circus Field for the London 2012 Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon events.

Seb Coe, Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee said: "We are delighted with the outcome of this democratic process and thank the Greenwich Council Planning Authority and all the people who came out to speak for and against this application.

"The message from tonight is loud and clear. This great Park is on loan to the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games and the people of the world. We must return it to the residents of Greenwich, to Londoners and visitors from the UK and around the world in the same condition, or better, than it was loaned to us.


"We take this responsibility seriously and will continue to work with the park authorities, resident and park user groups and the people of Greenwich as we develop and implement our plans to stage an extraordinary event in 2012."

The international equestrian federation (FEI) said: "The FEI is thrilled by the decision of the Greenwich Council Planning Authority in regard to the planning application for Greenwich Park. Greenwich Park is a spectacular venue which places Equestrian sport right at the heart of the 2012 Olympic Games."

As soon as the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games are over, the site will be restored to its former use and condition in full accordance with a Site Reinstatement Plan to be agreed by Greenwich Council, in consultation with the Royal Parks and other statutory bodies.