About

On 6 July 2005 it was announced that London had been awarded the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Although Suffolk will not be hosting any events the East of England will host two Olympic events: mountain biking in Essex and white water canoeing in Hertfordshire.

Suffolk was enthusiastic in backing the London bid and is firmly behind the 2012 Games and is now rising to the challenge to make the most of the Games for Suffolk. With our proximity to London and good transport connections to the venue, there is the potential for the county to not only capitalise on the benefits from the actual Games but also to use them as a catalyst to drive forward economic and social development and change throughout the county.

To ensure Suffolk is well placed to both contribute to a successful Games, and benefit from an economic and social legacy, a partnership group of public, private and voluntary sector organisations has been formed.

The ambition for the Suffolk Partnership is to create a sustainable legacy from the 2012 Games that extends from sport to economic development, regeneration, skills, employment, culture and tourism.

“With all the sporting action taking place on our doorstep, Suffolk is in pole position to benefit from this major event” Councillor Lisa Chambers, Portfolio Holder for Economic and Cultural Development

The Regional Economic Impact Study, undertaken by the East of England Development Agency in 2006, estimates that, with intervention, the county can reasonably expect economic benefits of around £66 million from the 2012 Games, although it also warns of a potential negative impact if no intervention takes place. It also highlights the potential opportunities to increase participation in sport, volunteering and cultural activity as well as improving skills, increasing tourism and maximising business opportunities.

The 'Rising to the Challenge Suffolk' campaign aims to maximise these potential benefits for Suffolk and leave a lasting legacy for the county. To sign up for our electronic newsletter and e-shots just click on the left hand column. The purpose of the newsletter and e-shots is to keep you informed of the latest London 2012 related stories, initiatives and opportunities.