Surveys assess economic contribution of road racing to Isle of Man
Wednesday 18 November 2009
TT
The value of road racing to the economy of the Isle of Man – home of the TT – has been revealed in a survey of fans.
It has been confirmed research will also be carried out during the 2010 TT, which starts on May 29, to provide a greater understanding of the event and its economic contribution.
That survey will be part of a series of research projects to assess the contribution of motorsport to the Manx economy.
The first survey by the Department of Tourism and Leisure was conducted during the Manx Grand Prix earlier this year, when more than 4,500 people were interviewed. The MGP, which uses the same Mountain Course as the TT, attracted 8,915 visitors to the Island, of which 8.055 travelled by sea.
The survey showed each visitor spent around £551 during their visit, which lasted an average of 7.3 days, making an overall contribution to the Island’s economy of £4.9 million – and contributing income of approximately £800,000 to the Isle of Man Government.
The data also showed most visitors come from the North West of England, followed by the Midlands and South East. The highest numbers of international visitors travelled from Australia (124) and Germany (113).
Other findings in the survey included the fact the recently developed classic programme had proved popular with fans, with a large number expressing an interest in the programme and stating it was one of the reasons for their visit to the MGP. High levels of loyalty to the event were also confirmed.
The results of this and subsequent surveys will allow the DTL and partners to ensure motorsport events like the TT continue to develop to best meet the requirements of Isle of Man residents and visitors.
Tourism and Leisure Minister Martyn Quayle said:
‘The research has given us a really good insight into the MGP. We will now look to work with our partners at the Manx Motor Cycle Club to develop the popular areas of the event so that we are able to encourage more visitors to attend and increase the contribution that the event makes to the Island’s economy.’