District hails rise in visitor numbers as it plans for next five years

Newly released figures show visits to the borough of Calderdale, West Yorkshire, added up to 7.6 million in 2023, up nearly 5% from 2022.

These were worth more than £600m to the local economy, a 16% increase on the previous year, and supported over 5,500 full-time jobs – almost 10% more than in 2022.

This is according to a report by Global Tourism Solutions, commissioned by Calderdale Council,

To ensure the borough’s tourism offer continues to attract visitors, the council’s visitor economy team is working with partner organisations across to put a new five-year Visitor Economy Strategy into action.

Councillor Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: “We’re thrilled that visits to Calderdale are on the up, despite cost of living pressures.

“The borough’s towns, places, people, businesses and attractions continue to offer something distinctive to visitors and film crews.

“We can see the lasting impact that TV and film tourism is having on our economy, with people still keen to see where favourites like Happy Valley, Gentleman Jack and Marvel: Secret Invasion were filmed.

“And venues like The Piece Hall are putting Calderdale on the international map as a cultural, heritage and music destination.

“We are building on this success through our Visitor Economy Strategy, widespread regeneration to support thriving towns and places, and our iconic Year of Culture 2024.

“We want to protect and promote the qualities that make our borough special, for local people as well as visitors.”

The Visitor Economy Strategy aims to generate more and longer trips to Calderdale, benefiting the local economy and leading to increased jobs.

It also focuses on working with other organisations and local communities to showcase Calderdale, ensuring the borough remains competitive, compelling and attractive.

Funding from the UK Government’s Rural Fund (part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund) is also helping to boost visitor numbers in rural parts of Calderdale.

The fund supports businesses and communities in rural areas by providing grants to boost local economies and foster growth.

Calderdale has received the highest number of successful applications in West Yorkshire.

So far, 21 businesses in Calderdale have been approved for funding, with 18 of them collectively receiving a total grant value of around £730,000.