Major Events

The Northwest has been successful in winning major national and international events, which contributes to an improved image of the region, as well as generating economic activity. But there are significant opportunities to build on other major events and much to do to ensure that the region benefits from its successes in winning such accolades.

Major events make an important contribution to the economic development of the region, as well as helping to project the Northwest on the world stage. Over the last two years, events supported by the NWDA have resulted in 1.2 million visitors, 180,000 bed nights and a £40 million contribution to regional economy - as well as 32 hours of national television coverage.

Home to the iconic cities of Liverpool and Manchester, England’s Northwest is renowned for its unique cultural offering. It is home to a vast range of artistic events, including the hugely successful Liverpool Biennial and the Manchester International Festival.

Perhaps the most significant success story is Liverpool’s designation as European Capital of Culture in 2008. This forms part of a £2 billion regeneration programme and is expected to generate an additional 1.7 million visitors by 2012 and an additional £310 million spend by tourists.

As well as offering a wide-range of cultural events, the region also has an excellent track record for hosting successful sporting events, such as the Grand National and the Open Golf Championship. However, it was the successful staging of the Commonwealth Games in 2002 that showed that the Northwest is capable of hosting one-off major events. An assessment of the long-term direct effects of the Commonwealth Games  highlighted the creation of 6,300 full-time jobs and a £22 million increase in turnover reported by local businesses.

For further information about the economic benefits of the Commonwealth Games, please visit www.gameslegacy.com.

Other sporting successes include the European Hockey Championships in 2007, the World Squash Championships in 2008 and the World Swimming Championships also in 2008, all of which are to be hosted by England's Northwest.

The NWDA is also supporting London 2012 Olympic Games, ensuring that the Northwest capitalises on this massive opportunity.

Through the Northwest Major Events Strategy the NWDA will continue to support major events across the region, maximising the economic benefits they bring.

Major Events Strategy

More Information:

For further information about Major Events, please contact Sheldon Phillips, NWDA Partnership Marketing Manager on 01925 400 367 or email Sheldon.Phillips@nwda.co.uk