CBE for head of Olympic Park project

Etchingham-based Howard Shiplee, director of construction to the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), is to be made a CBE for services to construction.

Part of Mr Shiplee’s role within the ODA was to develop, lead and manage construction contracts, budgets and timelines for all permanent and temporary venues for this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games.

He was also responsible for helping construction inspections, workmanship standards and best practice on site.

In the past Mr Shiplee has built projects for Amec, High-Point Rendel, Bovis and Network Rail and was also the man behind the construction of Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2 and the redevelopment of Ascot Racecourse.

Olympic Delivery Authority chief executive Dennis Hone said: “Howard Shiplee fully deserves the honour of becoming a CBE.

“He played a key role in delivering the London 2012 venues and infrastructure on time and within budget, and promoted local employment and training opportunities throughout his time at the ODA.

“Howard ensured that the workforce continually kept up the pace and the results of his hard work are plain to see - we will be handing over the Olympic Park to the organising committee next week.”

The only other person from the Hastings and Rother area to be recognised in the New Year’s Honours List is Kate Adams, who is to be made an MBE for services to art and disability.

Ms Adams co-founded the Project Art Works at Hastings, which has been developing groundbreaking visual arts projects for individuals with profound neurological impairments since 1997.