The newts are protected by law

The great crested newts are being moved to make way for a cycle circuit in Hog Hill, Redbridge, east London.

They will be placed in a safe area within the new facility, which is replacing the Eastway Cycle Circuit where the Olympic Velopark will stand.

In order to secure planning permission for the site the London Development Agency had to ensure the newts' safety.

An existing pond has been enhanced and wooden logs and foliage brought in to create an ideal habitat for the newts.

Great crested newts are the largest species of newt in Britain and are protected by law.

Declining numbers

Their numbers have declined in the UK over recent years, due to the destruction and pollution of their breeding sites and terrestrial habitat.

Vincent Bartlett, the London Development Agency's planning manager, said: "Ultimately this process has taken eight months because we have had to wait for the soil to be damp and warm enough for the newts to come out, and get our whole approach approved by Natural England.

"Once the relocation work is finished, work will begin on a first class circuit."

It is hoped work will start on the circuit so it is ready in time for the new year.

Pete Lawrence who is leading the newts' relocation said: "The new circuit will be a safe spot, providing habitat for them to foliage for insects and grubs and hibernate in winter.

"They come out at night when the cyclists have left because it is too dry for them in the daytime."