SAS unit could use Ark Royal as Pool of London base

Plans are under way to bring the former Royal Navy flagship HMS Ark Royal to Docklands to provide security support for the Games.

Several proposals have been put to Defence Secretary Liam Fox to bring the decommissioned aircraft carrier into the Pool of London which stretches from London Bridge to just past Tower Bridge.

It had been feared that the carrier would soon be towed away from Portsmouth for scrap. But up to 20 sponsors now say they are interested in acquiring the ship for London.

One group of backers say the ship could be used as a base for an SAS contingent on counter-terrorist watch for the Games. It could also provide a tourist facility, conference centre and heliport.

The ship, pictured, has eight spots on the deck for the launch of helicopters. The hangars and stores have enough space to provide support for fire, ambulance, and river rescue services. The Metropolitan Police will have space to base some of their helicopters in the ship.

The emergency services have expressed interest in the plan for Ark Royal which is being supported by the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir David Richards, and the First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope.

It appears to have got an informal nod from the Prime Minister and the Mayor, though both have yet to give their formal approval.