As part of a special campaign, Birmingham 2022 is asking local communities to have their say and help shape the Commonwealth Games.

The Games will take place from 27th July to 7th August 2022 and members of the public are invited to  come along to one of the roadshows this weekend, or get involved online via social media using the hashtag #2022voices.

A drop-in event is taking place at intu Merry Hill today, which will provide an opportunity for residents to share what they think about their city, the Games and how local communities might benefit and get involved. John Crabtree, Chair of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, said:

“We’d like communities right across the West Midlands to be the heart and soul of Birmingham 2022.

“With athletes from 71 nations and territories arriving for the Games - and millions tuning in to watch – we’re asking people what they love about Birmingham and the West Midlands, and what they want to tell the world in 2022”.

Throughout the appeal, ideas and comments received will be collated to identify key themes suggested by the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands. These will inform the design process ahead of a major new brand being launched in early 2019. Mimi-Isabella Cesar, Team England gymnast added:

“This is a great chance for people to get involved with the 2022 Commonwealth Games. They are such an important event for me, and I still can’t quite believe they are taking place in my home city.

Local support makes so much difference to any athlete at a big competition, and it doesn’t get much bigger than these Games.”

Those unable to attend the roadshows can post a video or message on social media and tag their post #2022voices. Additionally, collection boxes will also be available at 10 locations around the city including libraries and leisure centres, for those without access to the internet, with postcards for people to write about their thoughts and be part of the public consultation.

A selection of all responses received during the campaign will be displayed on a dedicated #2022voices page on the Birmingham 2022 website. The deadline for responses is 2nd November 2018.

The Birmingham 2022 roadshow will be at intu Merry Hill today (Saturday) between 8:00am and 7:30pm.