The project will focus on health and wellbeing with the Loughborough University set to make its recommendations after fathering evidence and public views of different models.

Established in 2013, Spirit of 2012 hopes to build on the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"The project team from across the University is excited to work collaboratively with Spirit of 2012, experts from the sector and Counsel on this feasibility study around a UK Capital of Sport," said Dr Verity Postlethwaite, project lead for Loughborough University.

"The strong focus on health and wellbeing offers a fantastic starting point for the study and we will work hard to gather views and ideas from across the UK and a variety of communities."

The study will examine the readiness factors for places in the UK to host.

It will also keep an eye on the cost of living and economic factors.

The Counsel will lead the project along with experts to come up with in-depth recommendations on alternative models, strategic fit, funding and risks.

The City of Culture model will also be studied to develop a potential capital of sport.

"We are looking forward to working with Counsel and Loughborough University on the feasibility study for Capital of Sport," Ruth Hollis, chief executive of Spirit of 2012, said.

"It marks the beginning of an exciting opportunity to bring to life one of the key proposals offered in our Inquiry into the Power of Events.

"In the last decade, we have seen increases in wellbeing, cultural participation and local civic pride within Cities of Culture.

"We have good reason to believe these successes can be replicated with regard to increasing levels of physical activity and participation in sport and this study will be an important first step to their actualisation."