Forget London, imagine a World Cup in Plymouth
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ahead of today's vote, anticipation was building in the cities selected as the host destinations for England's bid.
Included among the 12 cities are some that don't normally play host to world football's biggest stars. Plymouth is home to Plymouth Argyle, who play in League One of the Football League. If England's bid is successful today, the club's ground Home Park will earn a massive refurbishment, growing from 19,500 seats to 45,000.
Douglas Fletcher, chairman of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "It would leave a legacy of a major world-class stadium as well as a major entertainment arena for the South-west." Vivien Pengelly, Plymouth City Council leader, added: "Bringing the tournament to Plymouth would create around 3,700 jobs in the city and generate a spend of almost £400m across Devon and Cornwall. Bringing international football to the city would benefit the local tourism industry for years to come."
Although fellow bid city Birmingham is already home to two Premier League clubs – Aston Villa and Birmingham City – excitement about the World Cup was echoed there.
Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "Staging World Cup matches will provide the perfect opportunity to showcase Birmingham to the world. The economic impact would be formidable and such a high- profile event can only inspire young people from across the city, leaving a lasting legacy."
The North-east has long been celebrated for its fanatical support of football, something which was rewarded when both Sunderland and Newcastle/Gateshead were named as host cities.
Paul Robertson, editor of the Newcastle Evening Chronicle, said: "We have wonderful coastline and countryside, a vibrant city which is both modern and steeped in history, great shops, transport network and of course we are known for our friendliness. Whichever nations are based here can be assured of a warm welcome."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments