Build Magazine June 2015

Build Magazine 23 Inside the Industry maintenance costs which exceed their revenue, and five out of six require ongoing taxpayer support. The exact maintenance costs of each stadium are estimated to be between R30 million and R70 million per annum meaning that the legacy of these stadiums is having an undeniably negative effect on South Africa. “As the trend for developing coun- tries hosting mega-events is increas- ing, with Brazil hosting the Olympics in 2016 and Qatar holding the World Cup in 2022, emphasis will continue to be placed on the positive legacy of the games,” says Dr Molloy. “For countries to ensure the legacy they promise when bidding for an event is fulfilled, an overarching strategy has to be put in place to manage all direct infrastructure and venue construction. Our recom- mendation is that countries should establish a World Cup Development Authority to oversee all of the direct infrastructure programs. Failure to improve management of infrastruc- ture around major sporting events means that the world’s sporting entertainment will be paid for by those least able to afford it.” Porth Elizabeth stadium dedicated to Nelson Mandela, April 3, 2010 in Pretoria South Africa jbor / Shutterstock.com