Brum games will boost economy in the wider Midlands region

BUSINESS lobby group the East Midlands Chamber has thrown its weight behind the successful 2022 Commonwealth Games bid from Birmingham.

The second city has been awarded the games with the win expected to boost tourism not only in Birmingham but across the wider region.

Chris Hobson, director of policy at East Midlands Chamber, said: “We congratulate Birmingham on winning the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

“This will bring thousands of people from all over the world to the Midlands and give us a chance to showcase what we have to offer, from the heritage of our fantastic cities, our industries and infrastructure to some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.”

Durban in South Africa had been selected as the original host but it was stripped of the games in March after fail- ing to meet numerous financial deadlines.

Birmingham was the only city to apply to fill the void and was declared noncompliant in October, but assurances over financial backing and land for an athletes’ village were given by Birmingham City Council securing the event just days before Christmas.

Birmingham becomes the third English city to host the games, after London and Manchester.

Birmingham’s successful bid was based on the presence of existing infrastructure such as the Alexandra Stadium and refurbished Birmingham New Street Station. Extensions to travel infrastructure are also in the pipeline with plans to extend the Midland Metro which runs into the heart of the city.

The 2018 Games will take place in Australia’s Gold Coast from April 4 to 15.