We’ve had The Euro’s. We’ve had Wimbledon. We’ve even had a general election, and through it all, despite the opinions of some estate agents, houses have continued to sell. Next is the Olympics. Will this be the latest excuse used by estate agents across the UK for homes that struggle to sell?
As we await the opening of the Paris Olympics, it’s a fitting time to look back on the legacy achieved since the London 2012 Olympic Games. The London Games cost £8.8 billion to stage but had already delivered £14.2 billion in economic value by 2014, with sustainable long-term outcomes for the community.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the largest urban park project in Europe in the last 150 years, exemplifies long-term community benefits, with all Olympic venues still actively used as event, culture, or employment hubs. This park has transformed East London, offering green spaces, sports facilities, and a vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. It’s a testament to how well-planned events can rejuvenate entire areas.
The London Olympics spurred major infrastructure projects like the Elizabeth Line and Westfield Stratford, with continued development at park sites showing the legacy of the Games twelve years on. These projects have significantly improved transportation links and shopping options, making East London a more desirable place to live and work. The Elizabeth Line, in particular, has made commuting faster and more efficient, boosting property values and attracting new businesses.
So, as we look forward to the Paris Olympics, let’s remember the positive impact such events can have. While estate agents might find new excuses for homes that they are struggling to sell, history shows us that with the right investment and planning, the benefits of hosting the Olympics can far outweigh the costs.
The legacy of the London 2012 Games continues to inspire and uplift communities, proving that progress and development can be lasting and meaningful.
Thanks for reading and let’s all hope locally that the somewhat similar but smaller investment being made to create the Eden Project Morecambe, has a similar effect making a better community for all.
Michelle
