Council in Olympics snub appeal

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Two funding applications for Olympics training camps by Belfast City Council have been turned down because a deadline was missed by three minutes.

Consultants FGS McClure Watters were employed to complete the application for a cycling velodrome and an upgrade to facilities at the Mary Peters Track.

The firm disputes that its application was late, and said it had acted in good faith with its client at all times.

The council has lodged an appeal with Sport NI which turned down the funding.

After Northern Ireland failed in its attempt to host any of the events at the 2012 Olympics, the focus has turned to providing training camps for athletes.

The bids were made under the Elite Facilities programme which allows areas outside London to apply for funding to extend venues or build new ones.

A council spokesperson said they were currently taking legal advice on the matter.