New figures estimated using the Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Model (STEAM) have revealed an increase in the value and volume of overnight visitors in NewcastleGateshead, with 14 per cent more people staying overnight in 2012.
The figures show 1.9m people (up by 200,000 compared to 2011) spent a total of 4.3m nights in NewcastleGateshead in 2012 (up five per cent), contributing £404m to the local economy (up eight per cent).
“Despite economically challenging times, NewcastleGateshead continues to offer stand-out experiences for visitors, from events like EAT! which again takes place later this month, to our world-famous nightlife and a retail and food offer that continues to attract investment,” says Sarah Stewart, Chief Executive at destination management and marketing organisation, NewcastleGateshead Initiative. “This is a great boost for the local economy as well as great news for everyone working in the tourism industry.”
Damon Roberts, Joint Chair of the North East Hotels Association, adds: “These figures are extremely positive from a hotelier perspective, as the popularity of NewcastleGateshead as a destination for overnight visitors continues to grow. A varied events programme across the area helps to boost occupancy at hotels throughout the region.”
The number of visitors, including those coming to NewcastleGateshead for the day, has reached 19.7m people (an increase of two per cent); tourism is now worth £1.3bn to the local economy. Employment in the sector has also increased with 18,799 people now employed in tourism related jobs (a rise of two per cent).
As well as NewcastleGateshead’s annual programme of festivals and events, which features favourites like EAT!, Juice Festival and the New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival, 2012 also saw a string of high-profile meetings take place.
Sage Gateshead hosted the Liberal Democrat Spring Conference in March, while Newcastle Civic Centre welcomed the National Union of Journalists in October. The two events combined attracted more than 1,850 delegates and ploughed more than £2m into the local economy.
NewcastleGateshead Initiative is currently undertaking a face-to-face survey from visitors about their stay. The survey, the first of its kind for three years, it is hoped, will provide valuable data to help understand who is currently coming to NewcastleGateshead and help shape future marketing campaigns. Partners, including hotels and leisure attractions, will help carry out the survey which will run throughout the summer.
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