Iconic venues London’s ‘secret’ weapon

Sandra Nori, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation in the host state of New South Wales, also praised London's plans to use world-famous sporting and cultural venues for the 2012 Games.

Venues such as Wimbledon, Lord's cricket ground, the new Wembley, Hyde Park and Horse Guards Parade would provide stunning Olympic Games settings, she said.

"We used landmarks such as Sydney Harbour and the Opera House in Olympic events such as the triathlon and the Olympic Torch Relay to great effect.

"London is blessed with a collection of iconic sporting and cultural venues which are highly appealing and will help to create special Olympic moments and memories for athletes and spectators alike.

"I think these venues will be a secret weapon for the bid."

Ms Nori met with London 2012 Chairman Barbara Cassani as well as tourism chiefs during a visit to London and briefed them on the massive economic upsides of staging the Games.

She said: "The Games created enormous benefits for Sydney, prior to, during and beyond the event.

"The tangible benefits are estimated to be worth more than $6.5 billion in economic activity over a 12-year period."

They also led to further national economic benefits through hosting other major events, including last year's Rugby World Cup, she added.

"The benefits of hosting the Games are significant if you get it right.

"While London certainly is already one of the great cities of the world, successfully hosting the Games will add to its reputation, particularly as a vibrant global centre for youth, culture and sport."

Barbara Cassani said that the meeting with Ms Nori had provided bid officials with the opportunity to learn more about the Sydney Games, regarded as one of the best Olympics ever staged.

She added: "Learning from the best both within the UK and outside the UK will make our bid stronger and more competitive."

28 April 2004