Rwc 2015 To Deliver £1bn To UK Economy
Next year’s Rugby World Cup will boost the UK’s economy by nearly £1 billion, according to a new economic impact study that estimates tournament will generate a total output of around £2.2 billion.
The report, undertaken by EY on behalf of the Organising Committee for Rugby World Cup 2015, predicts that this will translate into a contribution of £982 million to national GDP, with more foreign visitors than for any other World Cup and 41,000 jobs to be supported around the country.
In 2011, 133,000 visitors stayed an average of 23 nights during the 44-day event with an overall economic impact of $1.73 billion (NZD).
Chief Executive of England Rugby 2015, Debbie Jevans, said: ‘Rugby World Cup 2015 is set to create a wide range of economic opportunities across many different sectors. Whether through investment in infrastructure, supporting jobs or generating revenue in Fanzones, the economic benefits will be shared around our eleven Host Cities and beyond.’
The report estimates figures for each of the 11 Host Cities and looks at Exeter and Newcastle as case studies.
It is estimated that in Exeter the tournament will generate economic output of £39 million and, of this, £17 million will be added to the local economy. For Newcastle, the competition is estimated to generate economic output of £93 million, of which £43 million will be added to the local economy.
Minister for Sport, Helen Grant, added: ‘Rugby World Cup 2015 will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best of what this country has to offer to an international audience. Hosting the tournament next year will further cement the UK’s reputation in hosting major sporting events, create additional jobs and I’m extremely encouraged by the £1billion contribution the competition will make to the economy.’
