Hope has been reignited for the future of Crystal Palace's National Sports Centre following Lord Coe’s latest appointment.

Lord Sebastian Coe was recently elected President of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

Chair of the 2012 London Games, the Crystal Palace Sports Partnership (CPSP) welcomed his latest appointment with the hope his influence may save the centre.

But Lord Coe is also the executive chairman of the CSM Sport and Entertainment, which conducted a public consultation into the future of the NSC.

One of their options included the controversial plan to tear down the outdoor athletics track.

Chair of CPSP, John Powell, said: "With Seb at the helm of World Athletics we have a great opportunity to bring about much needed change in all elements of the sport.

"I spoke to him candidly last year about the future of Crystal Palace National Sports Centre (CPNSC), and he was adamant that the future direction lies in what the communities decide.

"We applaud Seb’s vision for athletics globally, but this must include retaining and enhancing the CPNSC, which played such a key role in his journey to the IAAF Presidency."

MORE TOP STORIES Some young athletes, who regularly use the track, have expressed their views over the latest developments.

Alex Yee, GB Junior Elite Triathlete and GB middle distance runner, told News Shopper: "After the excitement of the London Olympics I think it is important to have an athletics Stadium to continue the legacy of 2012 for future generations.

"Of course I would love for Lord Coe to look favourably on keeping the NSC because I believe it's essential for the future of South London's Athletes, whether it's Athletics or even diving, Crystal Palace is the home to many fabulous athletes who would be majorly affected by the closing of NSC.

"I strongly believe the NSC will play a large part in developing many young athletes to a level which will bring good press to the sport of Athletics and many other sports."

Fellow athlete Matthew Threadgold, a former southern 400 hurdles champion, said: "Losing the NSC would leave a massive void in the South of London, notorious for continuously producing some of the country’s finest talents it seems unthinkable that the track could be demolished."

The 25-year-old added: "It’s great that Lord Coe has got the top job at the IAAF but closer to home having the person at the top of the sport supporting keeping the athletics facilities at the NSC could be incredibly influential."