A key figure in the Athens Olympics has warned that it is now too late for London 2012 organisers to avoid building white elephants.

Sypros Capralos told Sky News: "I'm afraid now it's too late (for London). These mistakes happen at the planning phase, when you plan what to do and where to construct the facilities, whether you create permanent facilities or temporary facilities."

He added: "Now, it's the time just to concentrate on the Games and on delivering an excellent Games."

Games organisers Locog have prided themselves on their early planning for the use of Olympic venues after the Games, setting up a separate independent body to oversee the legacy.apralos also had a timely word of warning for those behind the London Games.

"When London was bidding for the Games, we gave them advice on things to avoid - avoid over-promising on what you try to deliver for Games time."

His reminder comes as the Government revises some of the initial pledges made at the time of the successful London bid in 2005