Work is being carried out to measure the impact of festivals on Lichfield’s economy.
A number of food, music and seasonal events now appear in the city’s calendar each year and Lichfield District Council says it is keen to understand the impact they have on the area.
A report to a meeting of the local authority’s economic growth, environment and development overview and scrutiny committee reveals that a specialist company has already been chosen to carry out the analysis.
The Market Research Group – based at Bournemouth University – will create an economic impact assessment to help councillors understand the value of the numerous events that take place throughout the year.
The report by Cllr Ian Pritchard said: “Lichfield traditionally boasts an extensive and enviable programme of events and festivals which attract thousands of visitors to the area.
“While Lichfield District Council delivers and supports a small number of these events, the majority of events that take place are delivered and funded by partner organisations.
“The aim of this work is to determine the impact the growing number of events and festivals are having on the city, local businesses and council services. In particular the council wish to identify the measurable economic benefits the events and festivals deliver.”
The report added that Lichfield was “rapidly becoming known as the City of Festivals” thanks to events such as the Bower, the Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, the Lichfield Food and Drinks Festival, the Cathedral Illuminated and the Lichfield Festival.
Organisers, stallholders and businesses will be surveyed as part of the new fact-finding mission, which is expected to deliver a final report to the council in January 2020.
