Birmingham has been confirmed as the host city of the Commonwealth Games in 2022.

Louise Martin, Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) president, made the announcement at the Arena Academy school in the city today.

“We warmly congratulate Birmingham and England on today’s announcement – it is a defining moment for this truly Commonwealth city,” Martin said. “With its rich history, cultural diversity, youthful dynamism and ambitious spirit, Birmingham embodies all that we cherish about the Commonwealth.”

The upcoming Commonwealth Games take place next year on the Gold Coast in Australia. Glasgow was the UK city to host the event in 2014 and the last time the Games were held in England, was Manchester in 2002.

The 2022 Birmingham Games are earmarked to take place between July 27 and August 7.

The Midland’s city, whose bid includes the refurbishment of Alexander Stadium, was chosen ahead of Liverpool as Britain’s candidate city in September.

As the only host bid submitted by the September deadline, it was widely expected that Birmingham would be awarded the Games, but the CGF initially said the city’s bid was “not fully compliant” and encouraged further bids from other cities who had expressed an interest.

However, after two months no competing bids were lodged, and Birmingham has now been approved.

It is anticipated that Games will cost £750 million, with the majority of costs being met by the government.

“The UK has a brilliant track record for putting on the biggest sports events in the world and it is great news that Birmingham has been selected to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games,” said Sports Minister Tracey Crouch.

“I am sure that we will put on an event that will make the country proud, leave a strong sporting legacy and strengthen relationships with our friends across the Commonwealth.”

The refurbishment and upgrades to Alexander Stadium, the home of UK Athletics and host of an annual Diamond League meet can now begin.

Plans include a permanent stadium capacity increase to 25,000, which would rise to between 40,000 and 45,000 with temporary seating for the Games, and also four indoor arenas.