Overview
- The Great North coalition of mayors and council leaders, chaired by Kim McGuinness, has sent a joint letter urging that any future UK bid be based in the North of England.
- The leaders seek an in‑principle commitment from government, support for proportionate feasibility and preparatory work, and early alignment on legacy objectives for northern communities.
- The proposal targets the 2036 or 2040 Games, citing the IOC’s openness to multi‑city, region‑wide hosts and the North’s existing venues, stadia, transport links and accommodation capacity.
- Signatories include Andy Burnham, Steve Rotheram, Tracy Brabin, Oliver Coppard, Ben Houchen, David Skaith and Luke Campbell, with public endorsements from Sir Brendan Foster.
- Reports note that the potential multi‑billion‑pound cost remains a concern, and no government response or detailed funding commitment has been announced.