West Ham confirm deal to move into the Olympic Stadium

West Ham will move into the Olympic Stadium at the start of the 2016/17 season, it has been confirmed.

The Hammers have been battling to secure the lease for the stadium, which was built for last summer's Olympic Games.

But they faced challenges from Tottenham and Leyton Orient in pursuit of the tenancy and their negotiations with the London Legacy Development Corporation over the site have been tortuous.

However, a deal has now been signed off by the London Legacy Development Corporation and the east London club can prepare for life at their new home, which will host its first game in 2016.

West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said: "I'm delighted we have been confirmed today as the anchor concessioner for the Olympic Stadium.

"I commend my two chairmen for their passion and commitment, I am delighted this has been rewarded now. And that their ambition to see the club they love enjoy a bright future at the Olympic Stadium has been realised."

The Hammers' new ground will hold 54,000 supporters and the conversion costs are expected to total around £160million.

"It's fantastic for everyone at West Ham United that at last all the club's hard work over the past three years has paid off," joint chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said.

"Since we came to West Ham in 2010 we have had a vision to really take the club forward so West Ham United can compete on the pitch at the highest level.

"Today's decision offers us a real platform to do this and we are fully committed to making it a real success.

"We understand the responsibilities that come with calling the nation's iconic Olympic Stadium, which will be converted into a world-class football stadium, our new home. It is an honour we will take on with pride."