The Impacts of Mega-events held at Satellite Venues - case study of Weymouth & Portland, possible Olympic sailing venue in 2012.

Abstract

The mega-event industry is growing internationally with a diverse portfolio ranging from the “Spectacle Par Excellence” of the Olympic games through to cultural celebrations and historical anniversaries. To gain long-term benefits from the hosting of mega-events, it is imperative to plan effectively and well in advance. The lack of plans or poor planning, are significant and often result in negative impacts rather than positive legacies. Whilst attention is often focussed on the main centre of activity of the mega-event, there are often cases, especially the Olympics, where satellite sites are required to host events. Often this is due to the existence of already established, world class sporting facilities or for historical reasons as seen in the 2004 Athens Olympics. This dissertation investigates the impacts seen at satellite sites and will attempt to argue the case for future mega-events, especially the Olympics, to capitalise on existing facilities rather than build new, thereby avoiding the possibility of incurring long-term financial burdens. Furthermore, to ascertain if the impacts of hosting mega-events at satellite sites have less of a negative impact than at newly constructed sites. It also evaluates the importance given to tourism planning and the roles local communities can play alongside non-governmental organisations are also discussed, as are the opportunities for urban regeneration. The research is based at Weymouth & Portland, Dorset, and the potential venue of the Sailing Competition of the 2012 London bid.