A new video shows how the stadium has been transformed to a space that is now hosting games for the Rugby World Cup.
Balfour Beatty’s £272m job to transform the stadium from its games-time configuration into its future state as a year-round multi-use venue required challenging engineering works.
Components have been reused, recycled and enhanced to create the new 45,000m2 cantilevered roof – twice the size of the original – and the largest of its type in the world.
The work included the removal of the original roof and light paddles to fit a new permanent roof.
Steelwork contractor William Hare needed to carry out significant strengthening of the superstructure to support the 8km of cable net before fitting 112 steel rafters, 9,900 roof panels and 14 light paddles each weighing 45 tonnes.
The new cantilevered roof covers every seat in the venue, improving the acoustics and spectator experience.
Installing the innovative retractable seating system required the removal of the lower seating bowl.
The 21,000 movable seats bring the fans close to the pitch for football and rugby ensuring the Stadium has a long-term legacy.
Other works included installing catering facilities, toilets and turnstiles, all of which were only temporary during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Following the Rugby World Cup, contractors will return to the stadium to complete the final fit-out before the Stadium becomes the new home of West Ham United FC and the National Competition Centre for athletics in the UK, as well as a major venue for other sporting events.
It will be open all year round for visitor tours, arts and cultural events, conferences and music concerts.