The London Olympics may be over, but it appears that Britain will also enjoy an element of involvement in the next Games, which will be held in Rio in 2016. Two of the country’s top architecture firms will work alongside Brazilian companies in order to design venues in which the world’s leading athletes will compete in only three years’ time.
London 2012 Velodrome
Firm and Architects has been awarded a contract to co-design the handball arena, while 3D Reid has the honour of participating in the creation of the velodrome alongside Rio firm BLAC Architects. Rather than designing aspects, however, 3D Reid will act as specialist venue consultants in an advisory role.
3D Reid has some experience in the field of velodrome design, of course, as it was the firm behind the construction of the next Commonwealth Games velodrome. This will be showcased when the event takes place next summer.
Trade and Investment Minister, Lord Green, believes that the success of the London Games has allowed British firms to earn a great deal more respect on the international platform.
He says; “We showed the world what we can do in London 2012 – now is the time to capitalise on this great success and the expertise so many British companies demonstrated in delivering the Games.
“UK firms are taking the initiative and thinking long-term by linking up with Brazilian companies, which is vital to winning contracts for Rio.
“There are still many opportunities out there for UK companies to win business for Rio, new tenders are opening up all the time.”
The Government believes that the nature of construction work in the lead-up to the London Games has allowed British firms to learn more about design and hone their skills, thus multiplying the number of companies in this country well placed to win sports business contracts. And, with fears about a triple dip recession remaining on the horizon, perhaps international sporting events could prove to be the salvation of the British manufacturing sector.
Do you think the London Olympics have given Britain an edge in the field of sports venue construction?
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