The first of 14 floodlights in the Olympic Stadium which helped to illuminate London 2012 has been taken down.

Newham Recorder: Olympic Stadium floodlightsOlympic Stadium floodlights (Image: Archant)

The unique triangular floodlights, which weigh 34 tonnes and contain an average of 35 lamps, are being removed as the stadium is transformed into a multi-use venue.

A new roof is being built which will be twice the size of its original and will cover every seat in the 55,000 seater stadium.

Work on the stadium is expected to be completed in spring 2015 ahead of the Rugby World Cup, which will host five fixtures, including the bronze medal match.

In 2016, West Ham Football Club will become a joint tenant alongside UK Athletics, who will host regional and national age group championships, as well as top level international events including an annual IAAF Diamond League meeting.

The Stadium is a key part of wider plans for Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park which will see 6,800 homes built across five neighbourhoods and the creation of over 9,000 jobs.