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The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has moved forward with plans to enhance facilities at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, the host venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

David Higgins, ODA chief executive, said: "Improvements at Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy are a key project for us outside of the delivery of the Olympic Park in east London and will help spread Olympic benefits around the UK."

The ODA has commissioned a consultancy team at White Young Green and Royal Haskoning, project managed by the South West of England Regional Development Agency, to work on the design and environmental studies, prior to submitting a planning application in Spring next year.

Olympic organising committee chairman, Sebastian Coe, said: "The design enhancements, along with the proposed course layout and consistent wind conditions set in the Bay of Weymouth will create a stunning amphitheatre for Olympic and Paralympic sailing teams and spectators in 2012."

Part of the new design is building a longer, dual-aspect slipway and more race-boat parking, lifting and mooring facilities at the sailing academy, which is rated as one of the best small-boat sailing locations in Europe.

Coe added: "The enhancements will transform Weymouth from an existing top class venue into a world class training and competition venue equipped to stage major international sailing events and competitions after the 2012 games."