Birmingham and Solihull businesses are backing the City's bid to
be crowned the UK's first City of Culture in 2013.
In a survey undertaken by Birmingham and Solihull Chamber of
Commerce and Industry (BCI) 96 per cent of respondents stated that
the city should bid for this exclusive status.
Next week the 'Ashes' comes to Edgbaston which will bring lots
of visitors spending money in businesses in the city and
surrounding areas. Other high profile events which have boosted
Birmingham's economic success this year have included the
Conservative Party Conference and the Rotary International
Convention.
Birmingham City Council is leading the bid for the UK wide
competition to find the first city of culture, which was launched
last week by Culture Secretary of State, Ben Bradshaw MP. The
winner would host major events such as the Brits and the Turner
Prize and would enjoy up to £200 million over the twelve
month period in 2013.
Will Rogers, Policy Advisor at the Chamber said: "This
city provides excellent accommodation and world class conferencing
facilities. The fact that the Conservative Party is coming back
next year demonstrates this. To be Britain's first City of
Culture would not only benefit Birmingham but also the surrounding
areas.
"It would be a great opportunity to capitalise on the wealth of
tourism that the Olympics will bring to the UK and it will place
Birmingham where it belongs - in the spotlight."