Electric Bay festival gives £1 million local boost - as council looks to increase outdoor events
Tourism bosses in Torbay are trying to make the resort a year-round destination
Torbay Council says it's looking to stage more outdoor events year-round, as things like this weekend's 'electric bay' festival help boost the local economy by up to £1 million.
Fatboy Slim and Idris Elba take to the stage at Torre Abbey Meadows later on day two - with many people staying in hotels and eating out as a result.
Councillor Swithin Long, a former cabinet member who lobbied to increase the year-round local events offering, said: "There's evidence that events drive stays in hotels, as events like Electric Bay or Pride certainly drives our tourism economy and we need more events like them.
"Certainly things like the Bay of Lights which we started in Winter we know that they help bring footfall - so we know we need to have events throughout the year and take account of the weather."
Speaking ahead of this weekend,. Carolyn Custerson, CEO of English Riviera BID Company, said: “We are excited to welcome one of the biggest acts ever to perform in the English Riviera, with Fatboy Slim headlining Electric Bay this year.
“The excitement is palpable as we expect to host a crowd of 9,000 on Saturday night alone, showcasing the incredible potential of our region as a premier destination for major events.
"This festival is not just about great music; it’s also a significant boost for our local economy. An impact survey from the most recent festival revealed that Electric Bay generated over £1 million for the English Riviera, reinforcing its importance as a cornerstone of our summer season.”