Sports stadia and arena: Realising their full potential

The role and impact of sports stadia in shaping urban policy and design has received relatively little attention from researchers. It is increasingly apparent, however, that as cities around the World compete to host sporting and other mega-events there is a rush to develop new stadia and arenas. These facilities provide a platform for fresh tourism marketing initiatives. They also create a stimulus for other commercial investment such as hotels, restaurants and themed bars. Evidence from North America is inconclusive about the economic impact of stadia per se . It is apparent, however, that when these facilities are integrated with an overall sports tourism strategy significant benefits can be realised for cities.