There seems to be a sense of confidence surrounding Birmingham’s bid to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Unlike the failure of the previous country selected to host the games, organisers believe they have the power to create a lasting legacy for the city.
Finding a venue for the 22nd edition of the multi-sport event has been somewhat of a PR nightmare. Durban in South Africa was originally selected to host the Games when they won their bid unopposed. The celebrations of the country was short lived after they were stripped of the Games in March this year for failing to meet the criteria set out by the Commonwealth Games Federation.
Birmingham is now engaged in a head-to-head race against Liverpool for a chance to host the event in the UK. Unlike South Africa’s financial uncertainty, they have stated that their bid will not only be ‘low cost,’ but it will also be within budget. Following in the footsteps of Glasgow 2014, who were £35M under their projected cost.
“We would not be bidding to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games if we did not believe we could deliver the Games in a cost-effective manner and within budget.” A spokesperson told The Sportsman.
“Birmingham 2022 will be a low cost, low risk, high quality Games with 90% of venues already in existence. Funding for the Games will come from the city, the wider region as well as a significant portion from central Government.”
The Masterplan proposes the use of a variety of venues around the city. 3x3 Basketball, which will make its debut at the 2022 Games, could be held in Victoria Square in front of up to 3000 spectators. The NEC will host a variety of indoor sports and they plan to build a brand new venue for the Swimming and Diving competitions called the Sandwell Aquatics Centre. A 4000-capacity arena featuring a 50m pool, a warm-up pool and competition diving pool with a moveable floor.
Enthusiasm for the bid is well documented. Public backers include Mo Farah, the men’s 4x100 meter relay world champions, Tanni Grey-Thompson, Julie Walters and Aston Villa FC. From the world of business HSBC and Mondelez has also lent their support. At the moment it all seems to be going picture perfect, but what about the future?
“We are currently focused on winning the UK Candidate City nomination, ahead of the international competition, and we are thrilled with the level of support we are seeing for the Birmingham bid, but urge everyone to continue to show their support using #BrumBid2022 on social media.” Birmingham 2022 replied when challenged about how they plan to maintain the enthusiasm.
Youth on their side?
Facing stiff competition from up north, Birmingham does have something that no other city has - youth. 40% of the population is under the age of 25 and the city has the highest rate of under 20 year olds of any major city. Furthermore, an estimated 6% (314,000) were born in commonwealth countries. It is clear that this demographic is what the organisers want to promote as well as inspire in the future.
“As the ‘City of Running’ Birmingham will provide a strong legacy for athletics with the regeneration of Alexander Stadium, and a focus on urban sports, through the Urban Street Festival, supported by an education programme to tackle childhood obesity and encourage active lives.”
Besides fitness, it is claimed that the quality of the city will also improve. The proposed athletics village will be turned into housing afterwards. Furthermore, they will also launch numerous schemes to train local residents should they be selected as the host city.
“Prospects for residents will be enhanced not only through job creation, but also by providing opportunities and qualifications through the volunteering programme. Increased tourism will bring new opportunities that will benefit Birmingham’s booming leisure and entertainment sector.”
Good, but not perfect
Like with any other bid, there are always pitfalls. A recent visit by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) highlighted this. According to reports, Birmingham had to make ‘some adjustments’ to their plans. Although it remains a mystery as to what those were.
“We are not allowed to comment on the specifics of the bid process, but it is a rigorous process and of course we have welcomed the feedback and input and made adjustments where we felt it would enhance the Games.” Their spokesperson explained.
Liverpool was also reportedly asked to make adjustments.
Drawbacks aside, it is clear that Birmingham has their eyes fixated on the prize. They claim their legacy will be ‘better health and wellbeing; better prospects; better lining.’ Only time will tell if they will live up to their promise.
The selection of the host city for the Games will take place in the autumn.
Commonwealth Games quick facts
- Founded: 1930
- When is it hosted? Every four years
- Number of times it has been held in the UK - 6 (London 1934, Cardiff 1958, Edinburgh 1970/1986, Manchester 2002 and Glasgow 2014).
- Nations eligible to participate: 70
- The most successful country - Australia with a total of 2218 medals (852 gold, 716 silver and 650 bronze)
