Hosting the 2012 Olympics will benefit London’s tourism by £2.2 billion says Visit London Chief Executive James Bidwell.
The announcement follows a report published by the European Tour Operators Association that claimed hosting the Olympics typically stalls tourism growth.
Bidwell said: "The forecast incremental tourism benefit of the Games is £2.2 billion for London and £2.9 billion for the UK. This is based on research undertaken by Oxford Economics last year and includes the impact of any displacement effect. Our research also shows that increases in visits from our traditional markets such as the US and Europe due to the Games are likely to be outpaced by those from the rapidly-emerging economies of the world - once again highlighting the growing importance of emerging markets and their significance in delivering the post-London 2012 legacy."
Bidwell also took the opportunity to re-stress the need for the Government to ensure that appropriate funding was in place. He said: "The tourism benefits of the London 2012 Games do depend on having the right investment and strategies. With just four years to go it is critical that the Government ensures appropriate funding is in place to maximise the forecast tourism legacy across the UK."
