Olympic Games: Legacy versus Delivery

Abstract

This chapter addresses the inherent and symptomatic tension within mega-events between the uncompromising imperative of efficient project delivery (the deadline of delivering Olympic Games is non-negotiable) and the claims that the regeneration of some of the most deprived neighbourhoods will be catalysed in the name of legacy. Essentially, exposing legacy to the discussion of 'right to the city' is an urbanistic effort to 'de-alienate' mega-events, as a massive urban intervention, from the citizens. The understanding of the nature of Mega-events as an urban phenomenon with dual commitments helps us to understand the 2012 Olympic Games in its urban context. London Olympic Games 2012 is a Mega-event with its legacy commitment (inclusion, sustainability and transparency) on the one hand and delivery (management efficiency, and major-projects experts) on the other.