Most venues already in place to host event at short notice

THE city is going head to head with Liverpool in the bid to become the UK’s nomination to secure the Games after original host Durban withdrew.

And Birmingham, with a range of world-class sporting facilities already in place – the Alexander Stadium, Barclaycard Arena, NEC, Villa Park, and Edgbaston cricket ground among them – is in a strong position.

Liverpool’s bid is based on several new stadia being built from scratch.

The team of experts who organised the London 2012 Olympic Games has already produced a report conclud- ing that Birmingham facilities and needs investment to bring games standard.

As well as the council, sports clubs and venues, the bid also has the backing of West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, and neighbouring councils through the West Midlands.

Council deputy leader Ian Ward, who is chairing the bid, said: “Hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games will accelerate Birmingham’s existing development plans for homes, jobs, services and infrastructure.” has only it up excellent modest to full

He said that with many West Midland resident having family links to the Commonwealth countries, the city is in a strong position. “Our vision is brought to life through the new logo which positions Birmingham as the heart of the UK, and the soul of the Commonwealth,” he said.

“Our logo is open and inviting, and its explosion of colour celebrates Birmingham’s super-diversity and youthful energy. Nearly 40 per cent of our population is under 25, and our pupils speak more than 100 different languages, making Birming- ham host.”

Among the venues is the University of Birmingham which could host hockey and squash.

Director of sport Zena Woodridge said: “This is possibly the most exciting project for Birmingham in a generation; and the outcome of the extremely robust feasibility study gives a strong sense that this is Birmingham’s time.

“With the obvious need to minimise cost and risk of a 2022 Games, the engagement of some strong an inclusive and welcoming regional players creates an existing network of high impact venues that ensures we have a bold and ambitious bid which is eminently deliverable. If we then add into the equation Birmingham’s location and accessibility in the heart of the country, the transformation of the city over the last decade, and its strong Commonwealth ties, ‘Birmingham 2022’ is surely a winning option for the city, region, UK and Commonwealth Games Federation.”

The Government will supply most of the funding for the winning city.