2022 Commonwealth Games – Venue Security Risk Assessments, United Kingdom

Since 2018, Intelligent Risks (IR) has provided ongoing support to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in the UK as specialist security advisors.  We performed the nascent role of the Security Functional Area in the Organising Committee to fast-track the development  of the security programme, budget, planning principles and venues security concept.  We have also provided extensive advice to the Organising Committee on the procurement strategy for security infrastructure and equipment.

IRs most recent contribution, in 2020 and 2021, was to develop the Security Risk Assessments for the B2022 competition venues, the three Games Villages and the International Broadcast Centre (IBC).  The Games footprint extends beyond Birmingham, across the West Midlands into Warwickshire and Staffordshire.  And even to London, where the Lee Valley Velodrome will host the Commonwealth Games cycling events.

Several high-profile international venues will be used for the games: including the redeveloped Alexander Stadium (see the artists impression above), Arena Birmingham, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Edgbaston Stadium and Coventry Building Society Arena (previously known as Ricoh Arena).

This project involved extensive venue visits to identify risks and vulnerabilities.  The team produced venue plans and a Bill of Quantities for security overlay requirements – including fencing, CCTV and searching and screening needs.  The methodology used was consistent with the international standard for Risk Management, ISO 31000:2018 – to ensure risk ratings are the principal basis for detailed security design and operational planning.

Our project deliverables support the event’s reputation as the ‘Friendly Games’ while ensuring there will be appropriate levels of security for Games spectators, athletes, officials, workforce and volunteers.

For related inquiries please contact IR’s CEO Neil Fergus