Northern England Olympic Bid Explored with £7m Fund

UK Sport received a government request in May to conduct an initial assessment, exploring the possibility of the games taking place across the North.

Chancellor John Healey will announce investment in a comprehensive feasibility study for a 'Northern Games' during Wednesday's Budget. The Prime Minister claims a major cash injection will be announced next week.

This study will examine potential venues, transport infrastructure, overall cost projections, and the chances of a successful bid. More than 40 Olympians, Paralympians, and elite athletes have signed a joint statement supporting the initiative.

Andy Burnham stated, 'Few things bring a country together quite like the Olympics. I want people to feel that sense of excitement again, and to experience it in their own towns and communities, not just watch it on the telly.'

Burnham also said, 'The Games would unlock opportunity across our towns and cities for the whole country. From north to south, it would be something everyone could get behind and be proud of.' He added, 'We know we can put on the greatest show on earth. Now we want to explore how we can do it again, with the whole country behind it.'

John Healey stated, 'The North hosting an event as big as this would be truly unforgettable.' He also claimed, 'Britain’s experience of London 2012 is proof we can host the world. I’m picking up the pace on our work to potentially bid for these prestigious games.'

Healey further added, 'It will lift communities, create opportunities and give the UK a huge boost.' The British Olympic Association, ParalympicsGB, and UK Sport collectively stated, 'Building on the success and legacy of London 2012, we look forward to working in partnership to explore this exciting opportunity and the benefits it could deliver for the nation, and for the global Olympic and Paralympic movements.'

The UK last hosted the Olympics in London in 2012. Sadiq Khan claims that excluding London from a northern bid would be a 'missed opportunity.'

A UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) department report in 2013 estimated the London 2012 Olympics boosted the economy by £9.9bn. However, some, including the Federation of Small Businesses and the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), questioned the estimated economic boost from London 2012.