A NEWCASTLE-based consulting engineers has been awarded a £5m Olympic Legacy contract at the Lee Valley white water course, where Team GB won gold and silver this summer.

Patrick Parsons is to head a project to make the most of the leisure facilities at Lee Valley.

The company is also looking to improve facilities for schools, make space for spectators and expand car parks at the 23-mile water course, which stretches from the Thames up through to Essex and Hertfordshire.

Patrick Parsons’ managing director Peter Stienlet, said: “There’s certainly an element of prestige for Patrick Parsons in having been selected to deliver this project. The upgrades to the facilities will also secure the course’s future as a world-class centre for sporting excellence.

“This continues our involvement in engineering world-class white water projects on an international scale.”

Patrick Parsons has been commissioned to provide full engineering services for the construction of two classrooms – one indoor for bad weather and one outdoor so students and teachers can make full use of it. The project will involve the creation of a new facility for athletes, with training areas, gym equipment and offices for coaches and physiotherapists.