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Gunnell horrified at Spurs 2012 plans

The 1992 Barcelona Olympics 400 metres hurdles winner and former world record holder was the latest figure to voice concerns in an increasingly acrimonious battle over the future of the 496 million pounds stadium.

"What a waste, what a waste," she told reporters when asked about the prospect of the venue being bulldozed. "I cannot comprehend that somebody wants to pull it down.

"I am so passionate about athletics and want to build up its profile."

Seb Coe, chairman of the London 2012 Olympic Committee, said earlier this month Britain's reputation would be "trashed" if Tottenham's bid was successful.

He told reporters on Monday that it was right that people were discussing the stadium's legacy now rather than after the event.

"There is strength of feeling out there," he said. "I think it is right that... as a country we address legacy early on. We shouldn't be surprised when people go on discussing it, that's where it should be."

The Olympic Legacy Company, in charge of the Olympic Park's legacy, has a third option to consider, the original bid plan to reduce the 80,000-seat stadium to 25,000 seats for local and international athletics events.