ABSTRACT
The international debate about the nature, role and legacy of ‘mega events’ is closely related to the large body of research on the Olympic Games and the varying forms and aspects of the urban regeneration process (Essex & Chalkley, 1998; Cashman, 2006). In particular, the study of legacy is linked to a wider research agenda related to such critical issues as: (a) communication and changing identity (De Moragas & Botella, 1996; Roche, 2000); (b) image building and city marketing strategy (Kotler et al., 1999); (c) economy and tourism (Preuss, 2004; Weed, 2008); and (d) non-material legacy (local pride, symbols, identity, etc.) as part of a wider combined strategic and material legacy (Gold & Gold, 2007; Roche, 2000).
