Commonwealth Games legacy plan unveiled by First Minister in Glasgow

Sep 2 2009 By Fraser Wilson

GLASGOW'S sports facilities will reach "world class" levels as the city reaps the benefits of a long-lasting legacy from hosting the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

That was the message from First Minister Alex Salmond and Steven Purcell, leader of Glasgow City Council, on Tuesday as they announced the vision for the legacy that the 2014 Games will leave the city - and Scotland on a wider scale.  

The Games will leave Glasgow the legacy of a better city, socially, economically and environmentally.

And investment in sports clubs, coaches, school sports and equipment will increase participation rates and leave a sporting legacy that will improve the citys health for generations to come.

Mr Salmond confirmed Sportscotland would contribute s18m towards a s25.5 million legacy fund with another s5.5m coming from The Big Lottery Fund.

A number of smaller legacies make up the grand plan.

Accessible Glasgow - with an improved transport infrastructure at a number of levels, from the M74 completion and East End Regeneration Route, to better walking and cycling routes.

Active Glasgow - world class venues to be constructed including the National Indoor Sports Arena and Velodrome in the east end to improvements to existing sports centres.

Green Glasgow - the legacy says the event will be low carbon and low waste, with improved air quality and waste management, expanded green spaces and greater investment in green technologies.

Inclusive Glasgow - 15,000 volunteers will be needed to run the event and fill a variety of roles, including stewarding, first aid and visitor guides.

International Glasgow - a successful Games will confirm Glasgows reputation as a desirable destination for visitors and a city that can stage major events very well.

Prosperous Glasgow - schemes such as the Commonwealth Apprenticeship Initiative and community benefit procurement rules mean that young people will gain skills and experience and local people will be presented with greater employment and training opportunities.  

Summing up at Tuesday's launch, the First Minister said: "The 2014 Commonwealth Games offer vast opportunities to put Scotland on the path to a healthier and more successful future."

Mr Purcell added: "The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games offer the people of the city a once in a generation opportunity to transform Glasgow socially, economically and environmentally.  

"The Council will do everything it possibly can to ensure that the 2014 Commonwealth Games leave Glasgow more prosperous, active, inclusive, accessible, green and with an enhanced international image and outlook.  

"I look forward to seeing a fantastic legacy for the city being delivered for Glasgow."

The Councils full plan for the legacy left to Glasgow by the 2014 Commonwealth Games will be published later this year.

More information on Glasgow City Councils vision for the Games legacy is available at: www.gameslegacyglasgow.com