The data comes from a report commissioned by Transport for the North for Atkins and Leisure Consultancy Ltd to undertake the first comprehensive pan-Northern study of the visitor economy and its relationship with transport.
It will form part of the Sub-national Transport Body’s evidence base when setting out future strategic plans and providing statutory advice on transport in the region.
Martin Tugwell, Chief Executive of Transport for the North, said: “This report paints a clear, and very exciting, picture of the value of our region’s visitor economy.
“The North has so much to offer – from stunning rural landscapes and incredible coastlines, to cultural hotspots and vibrant cities – it’s no wonder that we saw more than 420 million visits in 2019.
“This research has wider implications. The transport challenges those coming into our region face are the same for our residents and businesses too, particularly in rural areas, so the insights from this work will help build our cases for all manner of projects.
The report identifies a unique opportunity for the North to benefit from increased demand for UK-based tourism and leisure experiences among domestic visitors – particularly important given the increasing numbers of Britons holidaying in the UK rather than abroad. It also highlights the potential challenges with managing this increased demand in a sustainable manner.
Download the full report here