Telford events could bring over £10 million into local economy
Events in Telford could bring in more than £10 million to the local economy, it was claimed today.
A report into Telford & Wrekin Council's Destination Telford project shows that through just 16 events the council is set to bring in £10.125 million and 86,500 visitors.
The council says it will spend just £141,000 of its own money on the events, but hopes to benefit from national grants, already securing £56,000 from Arts Council England.
Councillors say that they hope Telford will become a greater destination for tourists, further boosting spending in the borough.
The figures were included in papers for the council's cabinet meeting held last night at Addenbrooke House.
Councillor Shaun Davies, cabinet member for business, neighbourhood and customer services, said: "With the recent investment the borough has seen over the last few years and with a population set to rise significantly by 2020, we feel there is no better time than now to promote our destination as a great place to live work and visit.
"We have a fantastic unrivalled and diverse offer with our Unesco World Heritage Site which is celebrating 30 years, historic market towns and an new urban town centre with a growing night-time economy."
Mr Davies said that the Destination Telford project is a key part of its plan to bring economic growth to the area.
He said: "The aim of the destination programme is to retain local spend in the borough as well as to attract more day, stay and business visitors to help economic growth. The economic impact assessment detailed in the report is a national benchmark based on Visit Britain averages and is encouraging.
"We are working with partners to bring even more events and activities to the borough which will only help to support the local economy and future job creation."
The council is now researching visits to the area to put on events that will attract an even wider range of people.
