Glasgow 2014 receives extra funding

The Scottish government has announced new plans to increase funding for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, after a report suggested that the initial budget was "insufficient".

Sports minister Shona Robison confirmed this week that the Scottish government will contribute an additional £37 million towards the forthcoming games, along with a dedicated £20 million reserve fund.

Ms Robison said: “The games need to be funded properly and the budget that is being announced will enable the potential benefits to be realised.”

The increase follows a funding review carried out by the Games’ Organising Committee earlier in the year.

Robison claimed that the funding boost has come as a result of “legislative changes, rising broadcasting costs and a more developed understanding of what is needed to deliver a successful Games”.

Scottish National Party minister Bob Doris said that the increase is “fantastic news for the people of Glasgow”.

“The current and proposed infrastructure projects such as the M74 extension and Fastlink will not only provide better transport for the City, but will also create jobs and help Glasgow through this downturn,” he said.

However, Ross Finnie, a spokesman for the Liberal Democrats, questioned whether the Scottish government has taken the budget increases seriously, saying: “What Scotland cannot afford now is for question marks to be raised over the future of these Games”.

The project has not been without setbacks. A recent report by Audit Scotland revealed that the national indoor sports arena has been subject to delays, in addition to the revamp of Glasgow’s national swimming centre.

Conservative MSP, Bill Aitken said: “Unless a firm hand is exercised, the project could spiral out of all control.”

Meanwhile, First Minister Alex Salmond has praised the plans for additional investment.

Mr Salmond said: "This necessary budgetary increase is challenging for the public purse but the funding boost is good news for 2014 and will ensure an exciting, efficient and effective event.”