A new study by the UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has revealed that the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games brought a significant boost to the local economy. The study found that the Games contributed at least £870 million ($1061 million/€980 million) to the economy of Birmingham and the surrounding West Midlands region.

Source : KPMG analysis, OC Data, BCC Data, SMBC Data and TfWM Data

Businesses and communities in the area greatly benefited from the Games. Sports Minister Stuart Andrew stated that the event was “tremendously successful in boosting the local economy and bringing people together.” The Games also put the West Midlands region on the global stage and provided the area with world-class facilities.

The study also found that the Games had a positive impact on inclusion and diversity. The Birmingham 2022 Games had the first fully integrated pride program and more medals for women than men. Additionally, it featured the biggest para-sport program in Commonwealth Games history.

Apart from a massive television viewership of 834.9 million, Birmingham 2022 had over 215 million digital views and 141 million interactions on social media. The Aquatics event, held at the Sandwell Aquatics Centre, and the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium have also benefited the region.

The government has announced that over £60 million ($73 million/€67 million) of unspent contingency funding will be invested in further improving the legacy of the Games. This report makes it clear that the Birmingham Commonwealth Games provided a huge and timely boost for the city, the West Midlands and the United Kingdom.

In conclusion, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games not only brought a significant boost to the local economy but also had a positive impact on inclusion and diversity. The government’s investment in the legacy of the Games will ensure that the benefits will continue to be felt for years to come.

Birmingham Commonwealth Games England