In his first budget as Chancellor, John Healey is set to announce a £7 million investment dedicated to exploring the possibility of bringing the Olympic and Paralympic Games to northern England. This funding will support a comprehensive feasibility study to determine if a bid for the 2040s is realistic.

The initiative follows a government-commissioned assessment by UK Sport, which was initiated in May prior to the current administration’s tenure. The study is intended to provide the necessary data to evaluate the infrastructure, economic impact, and logistical requirements of hosting such a large-scale international sporting event outside of London. If a bid were to proceed and prove successful, it would mark the first time the Games have been held in Britain since the 2012 London Olympics.

While the announcement highlights the government's interest in regional development through major sporting events, the proposal remains in the preliminary research phase. The £7 million is strictly earmarked for the feasibility study, and no formal decision on launching a bid has been made at this stage.