With the welcome announcement that Birmingham will host the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the rush to provide world class sports facilities for the city has begun. Yet some of the most eagerly anticipated events in the Games may end up taking place miles away from Birmingham if a new velodrome isn’t built in time.
British cycling success
Track cycling has become hugely popular in the UK, after years of medal-winning success from our cyclists. Birmingham has produced its fair share of champions, among them Hugh Porter and Jess Varnish, yet the Salford Park outdoor velodrome was demolished in the 1990s and has never been replaced.
The fear is that, if a new velodrome isn’t built, the hugely popular cycling events will take place miles away. But having a new velodrome is about more than simply attracting world class cyclists to the town. It’s about grass roots participation and giving young riders, especially from diverse and deprived backgrounds, the opportunity to pursue their dreams of Gold.
The impact of the Games
The 2022 Commonwealth Games is an opportunity for Birmingham to get on the international sporting map and for residents to be inspired by seeing world class athletes on their doorstep. But there’s a significant economic boost too – when Glasgow hosted the 2014 Games, £100 million was added to the economy and the upcoming Gold Coast Games could add up to $4 billion.
Where to stay
Finding accommodation will be tough, which makes the idea of luxury serviced apartments in Birmingham very appealing. Often centrally located and offering more flexible accommodation than a traditional hotel, serviced apartments offer a very modern solution to the question of where to stay in the city. If you want to visit the Games, it may be worth contacting some of the specialist local providers by googling who are 8waterloo street, for example. Comparing accommodation and availability before you book will land you an excellent central location at the heart of the action.
Standout events
So what will be the standout events at Birmingham 2022? The track and road cycling of course, where the home nations will be looking to continue their glittering success. There’ll be a new sprint king in town, and the mass participation events like the marathon and triathlon are always exciting to watch. Whatever you do, don’t miss being in Birmingham in 2022!
