how does visit manchester receive its funding

The GreaTer ManchesTer sTraTeGy for The VisiTor econoMy 2014 - 2020 inTroducTion

This strategy sets out the strategic direction for the visitor economy from 2014 through to 2020 and is the strategic framework for the whole of the Greater Manchester city-region: Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan. The strategy has been developed through consultation with members and stakeholders of Marketing Manchester, in particular with input from the Manchester Visitor Economy Forum who will be responsible for monitoring delivery of the identified action areas and progress against the targets set.

Albert Square, Manchester

2 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 Policy conTexT

Holcombe Hill, Bury Exchange Square, Manchester

The strategic direction of tourism in Greater Manchester is Four interdependent objectives have been identified to informed by the following national and sub-regional documents: address the opportunities and challenges for England ’s visitor economy: • Britain Tourism Strategy. Delivering a Golden Legacy: a growth strategy for inbound tourism • To increase England’s share of global visitor markets 2012 - 2020 (VisitBritain) • To offer visitors compelling destinations • England: A Strategic Framework for Tourism • To champion a successful, thriving tourism industry 2010 - 2020 (VisitEngland) • To facilitate greater engagement between the • Greater Manchester Strategy 2013 - 2020 visitor and the experience Stronger Together Visit Manchester is a key strategic tourism partner supporting In April 2013 the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport the delivery of both the Britain and England frameworks. launched VisitBritain’s long term tourism growth strategy for Britain. This ambitious strategy - delivering a Golden legacy: The Greater Manchester strategy vision is that ‘By 2020 the a growth strategy for inbound tourism 2012 - 2020 - aims Manchester city-region will have pioneered a new model for to attract 40 million international visitors a year, spending sustainable economic growth based around a more connected, £31.3 billion, by 2020. talented and greener city region where all our residents are able to contribute to and benefit from sustained prosperity.’ There are four main parts to the strategy: This strategy for the visitor economy will help to deliver those • Enhance Britain’s image aspirations for sustainable growth, by helping to create a • Ensure that Britain is packaged and sold distinctive sense of place, by maintaining and increasing our • Broaden Britain’s strong product offering competitive advantage, by creating employment opportunities • Make visiting Britain easier (air routes and visas) and by raising the global profile of Manchester as a place to live, invest and visit. The ten year strategic framework for Tourism in england , published in March 2010, aims to maximise tourism’s contribution to the economy, employment and quality of life in England. It sets out the ways in which the industry can work together to realise the framework’s growth ambition of 5% year on year in the value of tourism, creating an additional 225,000 jobs and £50 billion of expenditure by 2020.

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 3 Sir Kenneth Branagh in Macbeth, MIF 2013 Rochdale Pioneers Museum

Noble Prize Winners Professor Andre Geim and Professor Konstantin Novoselov The Manchester ‘M’, designed by Peter Saville original Modern In 2008 Manchester set out what it meant to be original modern: to make a contribution to the city and to challenge It is also essential that this strategy embodies the brand convention; to introduce a new idea or to be significantly values of Manchester and stays true to their ambition. progressive; to think global or to be truly ambitious within our Original Modern is a summation of Manchester’s identity, of own backyard. These criteria still hold true and have been the essence of the place. It reflects the best of what we are applied to the development of this strategy. We believe that and outlines the way in which we say and do things, as much Manchester has the power to change people, over the as what we say. Manchester is the brand, and its values course of a day, a week or a lifetime. But this relationship is remain the same as they were when the industrial revolution transactional, and our visitors will also change us - for the changed the world; when the ship canal was built and the better. We will encourage people to interact with Manchester, world’s first ever art exhibition held; when the atom was split as many people as possible, drawing them off their sofas, and the suffragette movement formed; when graphene was onto trams, trains, buses and bikes, into cars and through isolated and the Manchester International Festival created. the airport in their droves. We need to fill this place with Manchester is not original and modern because we’ve told it people, day in day out, and leave an imprint of Manchester to be – original modern makes sense because that’s what on every one of them. Manchester is.

4 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 TourisM and GreaTer ManchesTer

Domestic and inbound visitors spent over £84 billion in This growth compares well with other sectors and has enormous England in 2012, with tourism industries accounting for 2.7 potential to provide continued economic growth and million jobs, or in other words 10% of the total job market. employment for both England and Greater Manchester’s economy. National tourism growth since 2010 has averaged 8.7% against VisitEngland’s predicted target of 5%*. And this is at a time The charts below show the growth in the value of tourism in when tourism has not been without challenges including Greater Manchester since 2008 and the growth in domestic periods of exceptionally poor weather, a fragile economic staying and international visits to Greater Manchester and recovery and shifting patterns of demand. England since 2010.

*VisitEngland Annual Progress Report 2013

economic impact of Tourism 2008 - 2012

t £6.6bn a e ) r n G

£6.2bn t r c e a t s p £6bn e m h I

£5.8bn c c i n a m o M n

o £5.4bn c E £5.2bn £5bn 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Calendar Year

Source: Greater Manchester STEAM Report. STEAM = Scarborough Tourism Economic & Activity Monitor. Visit Manchester with Global Tourism Solutions.

Growth in domestic and international Visits 2010 - 2012

Greater Manchester 8% % increase in international England visits 2010 to 2012 4%

46% % increase in domestic staying visits 2010 to 2012 9%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%

Source for international data: International Passenger Survey (IPS), Office for National Statistics & VisitBritain. England: 25.7 million (2010) to 26.8 million (2012). Greater Manchester: 1.02 million (2010) to 1.09 million (2012).

Source for domestic data: Great Britain Tourism Survey (GBTS), VisitEngland. England: 95.5 million (2010) to 104.5 million (2012). Greater Manchester: 2.1 million (2010) to 3.1 million (2012).

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 5 Stockport Air Raid Shelters Manchester Art Gallery

A lot has changed in Greater Manchester since the previous This strategy outlines how Manchester will seek to secure its strategy was launched in 2008 and significant progress has share of the global tourism industry, not just with mature markets been made in developing the infrastructure and improving the but also in the emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India and quality of the product and of the visitor experience. China. It also looks at the importance of domestic tourism, particularly short breaks, which are an important target market These improvements include the completion of an £80 million for cities such as Manchester, but dependent on the product, redevelopment of Manchester Airport, expansion of the city’s infrastructure and promotion being correctly developed. Metrolink network, the opening of MediaCityUK ( home to the BBC and ITV) and the establishment of the Manchester Tourism can help Greater Manchester achieve its priorities for International Festival on the global cultural stage. sustainable economic growth and secure its place as one of Europe ’s premier city regions. A strong visitor economy can Development of the city-region’s business tourism industry play a key role in improving the quality of life, strengthening the has been a constant. Estimates valued it at £573 million in global distinctiveness and world ranking of Manchester as a 2009* and this had risen to £822 million by 2011*. Crucial to place to live, invest and visit and help address issues such as this growth was the continued investment in the conference youth unemployment and worklessness. One in twelve jobs in product, including the £30 million investment in Manchester the UK is currently either directly or indirectly supported by Central and the £45 million transformation of Emirates Old tourism. 44% of people employed in tourism are under 30, Trafford, the home of Lancashire County Cricket Club. compared with an average for the wider economy of 24%.***

A number of new attractions have opened in the last few years, Manchester has significant strengths to build on in attracting improving the leisure offer, including the National Football more domestic and international visitors. Museum, Legoland and the Sea Life Centre in Trafford. Other attractions including MOSI, the People’s History Museum and Manchester Airport currently handles 20 million passengers a Bury Transport Museum have received significant investment. year and has aspirations to grow the capacity to handle over 24 million passengers by 2018 to help meet anticipated demand. Testament to the impact of these developments is the growth in the city’s hotel bed stock. There are now more than 11,000 Business tourism makes a considerable contribution to the rooms in Manchester (over 7,000 in the city centre) with over prosperity of Manchester. The attraction of national and 2,000 more in the pipeline. international conferences not only contributes directly to the local economy, but also supports wider city objectives The investment is paying off. In Greater Manchester tourism of attracting talent and investment in key industry and now generates £6.6 billion a year for the local economy and academic sectors. supports nearly 84,000 FTE jobs.**

* Visit Manchester Conference Value and Volume 2010 and 2012. ** STEAM 2012 data. ***ONS 2012.

6 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 Since hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2002, the Manchester has a strong city centre retail offer that includes city-region has continued to strengthen its identity through Manchester Arndale, the UK’s largest inner city shopping mall, sport, most recently hosting Olympic football matches in 2012. with key retail attractions in the city-region such as the award- The continued success and profile of Manchester United and winning Trafford Centre and Bury and Bolton markets. A city Manchester City in the Premier and Champions leagues; the centre BID (Business Improvement District) was launched in opening of the National Football Museum in 2012; the Ashes early 2013 to increase footfall through events and improved returning to Emirates Old Trafford in 2013; and a regular marketing activity. programme of high profile sporting events such as NBA Basketball and the Great City Games all serve to reinforce the There have however been some set backs since 2008. There is city's profile as a major city for hosting national and uncertainty about the extent of the potential for growth and international sporting events. Facilities such as the National there are constraints on new investment, particularly by the Cycling Centre at Manchester Velodrome, the Manchester public sector at the moment. Private sector investment has Aquatics Centre and regional gymnastics and tennis centres also been constrained although will hopefully be more positive all attract visitors to Manchester. within the strategy period. Consequently, the ambitions for the next six years will be more focused, concentrating on those The city-region has a thriving creative, new media and digital opportunities where we can achieve the highest impact and sector with the new hub at MediaCityUK, as well as a strong return on investment. programme of cultural events, concerts and exhibitions. Major venues such as the Phones4u Arena, The Lowry , the Palace Theatre and The Bridgewater Hall are regularly attracting large audiences and helping to boost occupancy levels.

The National Football Museum

Metrolink tram Emirates Old Trafford

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 7 ManchesTer’s coMPeTiTiVe PosiTion

Manchester is the uK’s second most visited city destination. After London and Edinburgh it is the UK city Total staying visits to uK cities - 2012 (million) destination most visited by international visitors – 23% of 27.6 Manchester’s staying visitors are international.

4.1 3.6 3.5 2.2 2.0

l n r h m w o o te rg a o d s o p n e u h sg r o h b g a e L c in in l iv n d m G L a E ir M B

NB Data relates to overnight stays (milion)

Annual hotel occupancy in Manchester is robust and comparable to its UK comparators as shown in the chart room occupancy (2012) here. However, it does demonstrate a degree of seasonality. Compared to other UK cities, Manchester’s 81.1% August occupancy is relatively low – 70% compared to 76.8% 75.0% 73.7% an average of 76% elsewhere 1. 67.9% 63.8%

l n w r h o m o te rg o a d o s p n sg e u r h o a h b e g L l c in iv in G n d L m a E ir M B

Source: PKF BDO Consulting

1Based on an average of occupancies for London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham , and Liverpool .

8 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 Manchester is strong as a business travel destination. The following chart shows the number of trips per head of population for Manchester and a number of UK and international comparators 2. Only London and Barcelona have a higher ratio among the comparators.

Business staying visits (per capita)

1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.0 0.7 0.5

r n a e m w e h l l o n t a o rn rg o a d lo s h g u u o re n e e g s o b rp t o c h n a e n L r c i l lb in v o a n m G e d Li B a ir M E M M B

Data relates to overnight business per head of population (based on the population of the 'inner city' not the overall metropolitan area). NB for Barcelona data relates to hotel stays and will therefore exclude VFR and stays in non-commerical accommodation. Data is based on either 2011 or 2012.

2We have used trips per head of population here (and later in this section) to make comparisons between different sized cities more meaningful. So, for example, in absolute terms Manchester is never going to compare with London, but on a per capita basis the comparison is on a more like for like basis.

However, the leisure market is not as strongly developed. Among the comparators, only Birmingham has a lower ratio.

leisure staying visits (per capita)

1.8 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.2 0.8

r h n a l w e l e m rg o n o o rn a t a u d lo o g u re s h b n e rp s o t e g o c e a n h n in L r v l lb o c i d a Li G e n m E B M M a ir M B

Data relates to overnight leisure/holiday per head of population (based on the population of the 'inner city' not the overall metropolitan area). NB for Barcelona data relates to hotel stays and will therefore exclude VFR and stays in non-commerical accommodation. Data is based on either 2011 or 2012.

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 9 While Manchester has a number of good attractions, the relative strength of its leisure market is also reflected in data related to the attractions sector. Total visits to the top ten attractions in Manchester (relative to population) are lower than a number of comparator cites (half of Glasgow, for example).

Visits to top 10 attractions (per capita)

4.4 3.8 3.2 3.0 2.8 1.6 1.3 1.1

r h n l w n a e l m rg o o o li n t a a u d o g b lo s re h b n rp s u e e t g o e a D c h n n in L v l r c o i d i G a n m E L B a M ir M B

Data relates to number of visits to the top 10 attractons in a destination. NB data is not necessarily available for every attraction so the data relates to attractions where there are published figures.

The diagram below illustrates visitor perceptions of Manchester in terms of its perceived strengths (nightlife, events and transport) and weaknesses (safety and security, famous buildings).

Manchester    Weak Below average above average strong Visitor perceptions famous buildings and attractions, quality great place for nightlife, events and monuments, safety food and drink, shopping, festivals, and security friendly value for money public transport

Source: Based on results from VisitEngland and VisitScotland Brand tracker surveys.

10 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 challenGes and oPPorTuniTies

We know that some of the challenges identified in the last The emerging town centres work will help districts to identify strategy remain and there are a number of areas where we and develop their unique sense of place within Greater need to focus going forward. Manchester. We need to connect the Quays/MediaCityUK better to the city centre in terms of the physical connection i.e. The skills of our workforce are paramount in order to improve pedestrian, cycle and water bus routes but also in terms of our visitor welcome, raise productivity and improve the visitor how the Quays is positioned in promotional campaigns. experience and we must continue to invest and develop in this area. We must enhance our sustainability credentials and seek Our attractions are good and have great content but in global to reduce the environmental impact of the visitor economy. We terms they are not strong enough (apart from the global brand must continue to improve the public realm. We must build on profile of Manchester United). We need to strengthen the our strengths and leverage opportunities to promote profile of our cultural attractions and the role culture plays in Manchester as an events destination. We must continue to driving visits to the city-region. innovate in our promotion of the destination and ensure that we better articulate and communicate the story of our city in In order to achieve all this, Manchester must continue to rise to order to shift global perceptions. the challenges presented by changes in governance, structure and funding. We must continue to forge new partnerships with Staying ahead of the competition and maintaining a strong our tourism partners locally, nationally and internationally, appeal with our target markets is increasingly important as including with VisitEngland and VisitBritain. We must continue other cities continue to develop their own product offer. to invest in our tourism product to create a world-class destination. We must continue to increase our connectivity There are several ongoing issues at a national level that will with the world by strengthening the city’s relationship with continue to impact on tourism in Manchester such as high airlines so that they will choose Manchester to operate new levels of Air Passenger Duty (APD), the high cost and complex routes. application processes of UK visas and higher levels of VAT than other European countries. In the long term we need to be alert Manchester’s aspirations and determinations are therefore to opportunities that HS2 may bring for the visitor economy. clear. However, they must be tempered by the constraints of the current economic climate. We need to think smarter about the relationship between the city centre and the other districts in tourism terms and seek to The SWOT analysis on the following page summarises the main improve partnership working across Greater Manchester. strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

MediaCityUK

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 11 sWoT analysis

• Manchester Airport • Football/sport and the brand of Manchester United FC • Home to BBC North and ITV/MediaCityUK • Major venues including the Phones4u Arena and Manchester Central • Size, profile and reputation of the universities • Significant business tourism product • Strong events programme with a national and international profile • Ability to host major international events • The city product – retail and nightlife

Manchester City v Manchester United Weaknesses

• Visitor welcome (including the welcome for international visitors) • Insufficient high end/destination restaurants • A lack of iconic architecture and attractions • National and international profile as a cultural tourism destination • Some seasonality of demand opportunities

• The further growth of Manchester Airport as a gateway and the development of Airport City • Hosting of more major international events • Metrolink extensions better connecting Greater Manchester • BBC North being based in Manchester - its role as a broadcaster and as a generator of leisure and business tourism Airport City • Digital tourism initiatives • A significant student population and the opportunity for increased VFR • The increasing profile of Manchester City FC especially in key markets such as the UAE and the USA • External funding opportunities, including European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Regional Growth Fund (RGF) and Arts Council for England (ACE)

• Lack of public sector funding and limited external funding opportunities (as above) • National and International competition for major events and business tourism • National issues such as the cost of Air Passenger Duty, the cost and ease of obtaining UK visas, the level of VAT

Conservative Party Conference, Manchester Central

12 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 hoW do We MoVe forWard?

This strategy is focused on how we can maximise growth, but also generate greater benefit. The overall ambition and strategic aims are set out below:

The ambition In 2020 the visitor economy will continue to be a key driver of the social, cultural and economic life of Greater Manchester, with substantially increased economic benefits for residents and businesses. This will be achieved by further developing and promoting the Greater Manchester product offer for leisure and business visitors, as a year round vibrant and stimulating cultural city destination.  strategic aim 1 strategic aim 2 strategic aim 3 strategic aim 4 To position Manchester as To further develop To improve the quality and To maximise the capacity a successful international Manchester as a leading appeal of the product offer. for growth. destination. events destination.

For each strategic aim, there are a number of key action areas as follows: strategic aim 1 - To position Manchester as a funding for available resources wherever possible, from both successful international destination the public and private sector.

It is essential that we are clear which markets we are evaluation – we will closely track the impact of the competing for and against whom we are competing. We must promotional activities undertaken, in order to ensure they each prioritise our visitor markets by those which deliver the most deliver maximum return on investment for both Manchester as benefit and those that have the greatest potential for growth. a visitor destination and for the funding partners involved. We We must benchmark ourselves against those destinations with must also continue to invest in perception surveys to which we aspire to compete. We may not be in the league of understand if, and how, we are shifting perceptions across our Paris, London and New York , but we should aim to position priority markets. ourselves alongside cities like Barcelona, Munich, Gothenburg, Chicago, Montreal and Melbourne in the eyes of our target markets.

Key action areas

Markets – we must prioritise our efforts by focusing on the target markets where we can realise the growth in value. Domestic visitors remain a priority and we will continue to focus on shifting the demographic of visitors and the nature and length of their stay. Internationally we will focus on Europe (Germany, Scandinavia, Ireland and Spain), China, India, the USA and the UAE.

Promotion – we will continue to develop multi-channel promotional campaigns that drive key messages to identified target audiences. We will maintain a strong focus on media engagement, enabling the world’s travel and lifestyle media to tell our story on our behalf. We will maximise the impact of all activity by working in partnership and by seeking match Yang Sing restaurant

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 13 strategic aim 2 – To further develop image and profile and that will bring millions of people and Manchester as a leading events destination maximum economic benefit to the city-region.

Manchester is a place where people come to do things, Values – we must focus on attracting those events that whether that’s attending a business meeting, speaking at a resonate with the brand values of Manchester, seeking out conference, or going to a concert or a festival. There is no conferences that highlight and support our academic, business doubt that Manchester is well equipped to meet the sector and industry strengths, and on major events that meet requirements that come with staging major events, but with our aspirations to be known for internationally acclaimed increasing international competition it is critical that we sport, science and culture. We must also ensure that the maintain and grow our position. events we host have a lasting, positive legacy for the conurbation. Key action areas support – we must build collaborative networks across Business events – with such events already worth Greater Manchester that support the development and £822 million to the Greater Manchester economy, we must delivery of major events wherever they are to be held. We continue to focus on increasing the volume and value of must work with the industry to improve the quality and business events coming to the conurbation. We need to competitiveness of our offer, and to leverage external support ensure there is an even more collaborative approach to for investment opportunities. We need to improve our bidding for conferences and events, and focus on attracting combined bidding for international events. international events (including ICCA ranked events) which deliver greatest economic benefit. evaluation – we will continue to monitor the value and volume of our conference business including the number of ICCA culture and sport – 2.7 million people attended a concert or ranked events held in Manchester, We will also monitor our festival in Greater Manchester in 2012* and in terms of sport, success at hosting major cultural and sporting events. football alone contributes an estimated £330 million** per season to Greater Manchester’s economy. We need to continue to grow and attract events that support Manchester’s

Source: *The Music Industry in Manchester 2013. ** Analysing the value of football to Greater Manchester 2013.

BUPA Great Manchester Run

Madonna at the Phones4u Arena, 2010 Manchester Central

14 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 strategic aim 3 – To improve the quality connectivity – we must maximise the expansion of Metrolink and appeal of the product offer and the opportunities that smart ticketing will provide to help encourage dispersal around the conurbation. We must also Manchester is providing the UK with its second most visited support the digital infrastructure developments already taking destination and third most attractive destination for place and take advantage of their ability to greatly improve the international visitors. Whilst Manchester’s product is very visitor experience. strong in some areas, there is always room for improvement. This strategic aim is underpinned by the philosophy that distinctiveness – Manchester does not have a Great Wall or a making the conurbation better for all visitors means making it Grand Canyon – an icon that acts as our primary draw. better for the people of Manchester as well. However, we must champion our most distinctive attributes, our sporting and cultural strengths as well as our independent Key action areas retailers and restaurants, and we must encourage initiatives that will help us to create a stronger sense of place. Genuine Visitor experience – we must ensure that the basics are right, manifestations of our Original Modern brand values, such as at all levels, recognising that the level of expectation of visitors the Manchester International Festival, embody what we mean today is much higher than it was even five years ago. by championing our distinctiveness. However, the approach is Cleanliness, safety and security and the ease of getting around applicable across the board, and the creation of distinctive are all still important, but the need is also for improved digital town centres will play a significant role in developing a sense services for visitors, higher quality of amenities and of place across Greater Manchester. environment and more. The quality and warmth of our welcome to all visitors including conference delegates and evaluation – we will monitor visitor satisfaction levels through international visitors must also be seen as a basic essential. visitor surveys and benchmark the quality of our product with We will aim to continue to improve visitor satisfaction levels other cities. and continue to invest in the skills of our workforce.

Bolton Museum and Art Gallery

The Royal Exchange Theatre Haigh Hall , Wigan

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 15 strategic aim 4 – To maximise the capacity skills development – we must support the industry’s SMEs for growth and entrepreneurs to recognise growth potential and develop their capacity to realise this potential by highlighting access to In order to achieve growth we must maximise capacity, not financial support and training. only increasing available product (more routes, more beds, new attractions) but also use existing capacity better. Building Product capacity – we need to support opportunities to develop the volume and range of products and services for Key action areas visitors, including major new attractions and conference facilities. We need to capitalise on the major new cultural advocacy – we must do more to demonstrate the value of the facilities opening in 2014 and 2015. We need to create demand visitor economy, nationally and locally, to ensure that the to fill the anticipated growth in the accommodation sector - industry is well supported politically and financially and to hotel developments in the pipeline across Greater Manchester maximise investment from the private sector. We must ensure could lead to an additional 3,000 plus hotel rooms in the next that major infrastructure projects take account of the needs of few years. We need to continue to lobby for, and secure, visitors, and that we clearly identify priorities for tourism external funding, notably the European Regional Development related investment. Fund (ERDF), Heritage Lottery Funds (HLF), Arts Council England (ACE) funding and Regional Growth Fund (RGF). collaboration – arguably Manchester’s greatest strength - we must continue to work in partnership across the industry to evaluation – we will track potential capital investments and maximise the use of available capacity across all months of the monitor the performance of our attractions and year and across the whole conurbation through aligned accommodation. We will review our partnerships and development strategies, and to support Manchester Airport’s networks and facilitate and monitor support for SMEs. aspirations for growth.

The Avenue, Spinningfields

Radisson Blu Edwardian Free Trade Hall Worsley, Salford

16 The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 oBjecTiVes and TarGeTs

The objectives and individual targets for growth and increased what may happen in the years to come. Between 2008 and benefit are listed below. 2011 the numbers of staying and overseas visitors were less than 2007 levels but improved growth has been seen in the The overall objective is to achieve a 5% year on year growth in last two years. The value of tourism increased by 7.7% the value of tourism to fit with the target set within the national between 2010 and 2011, and by 5.3% between 2011 and 2012. growth plan, ‘England; a Strategic Framework for Tourism This strategy has been designed to ensure that this level of 2010 - 2020’. This is felt to be a challenging but realistic target growth is maintained or increased. based on the difficult environment of the last few years and

2007 baseline for previous 2012 baseline position Target for 2020 objectives GM Tourism strategy (latest data) (based on 2018 forecasts) To increase staying visitor numbers from 9.6m 10.3m 13.7m 10.3m to 13.7m To increase the number of day visitors 85m 95.2m 127m from 95.2m to 127m To increase the number of overseas 1.19m 1.09m 1.27m visitors from 1.09m to 1.27m To increase the value of tourism from £5.4bn £6.6bn £8.8bn £6.6bn to £8.8bn

To increase the number of jobs supported by tourism from 83,934 73,540 83,934 112,477 to 112,447 (FTE) jobs

To improve the economic impact of business events in GM from £822m £573m (2009) £822m (2011) £1.2bn (2011 baseline) to £1.2bn

To increase the number of ICCA ranked 21 30 45 events from 30 to 45 To improve visitor satisfaction levels from 4.2 4.5 (2010) 4.7 4.5/5 to 4.7/5 desTinaTion ManaGeMenT Plan

This tourism strategy will be delivered by Marketing Manchester in partnership with the local authorities and other key stakeholders through a new three year Destination Management Plan (DMP) 2014 - 2017. Progress will be monitored by the Manchester Visitor Economy Forum. The DMP will be reviewed and updated for 2017 - 2020.

useful references

Britain Tourism strategy. delivering a Golden legacy: a growth original Modern e-book strategy for inbound tourism 2012 - 2020 (VisitBritain) clicK here clicK here Marketing Manchester england; a strategic framework for Tourism 2010 - 2020 marketingmanchester.com (Visitengland) clicK here

Greater Manchester strategy 2013 - 2020 stronger Together clicK here

The Greater Manchester strategy for the Visitor economy 2014 - 2020 17

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Manchester becomes first UK city to charge tourists to visit

Manchester has become the first city in the UK to charge tourists for visiting.

The tourist tax - termed the 'city visitor charge' - aims to raise millions of pounds , which will then be spent on 'improving the visitor experience'.

The move follows in the footsteps of European cities such as Venice and Barcelona.

The tax will apply from 1 April, with visitors staying in city centre hotels charged £1 per night, per room.

It is hoped the scheme will rake in £3 million per year, which will go towards the new Manchester Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID), which aims to 'support future growth of the visitor economy' over the next five years.

The Manchester ABID website explains: "The Manchester Accommodation BID is a ground-breaking new initiative led by the city's hotel and serviced apartment providers to help create new events and additional activities that will attract more people to visit and stay in Manchester and Salford.

"It will also contribute to the enhancement of overall guest experience and help to expand the city’s visitor economy by:

• amplifying marketing campaigns that drive overnight stays;
• securing large-scale events, conferences, and festivals in low-season months;
• improving guest welcome and street cleanliness.

"The above activities will be funded by the City Visitor Charge; a supplementary £1 Charge per room/unit per night* for guests, added to the final accommodation bill.

"The statutory Charge will be collected from all paid accommodation establishments that fall into the Manchester Accommodation BID zone and will be applicable to all bookings from 1 April 2023."

Annie Brown, the chair of ABID, said the charge would benefit the city and visitors.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, she said: "I think [the message it sends] has been a consideration, however, when you compare it to European cities that have had taxes and visitor levies in place for a number of years, we feel it's a small amount comparatively.

"There are other cities in the UK looking to put in place what Manchester has done, I don't think it's a charge that's off-putting."

She continued: "I think it's widely known we have an ever-increasing number of hotels opening, so it’s ever-more-important that we’re self-sustaining that growth and make it the place to come.

"There's a number of ways of doing that, and the biggest two are around city events in 'shoulder periods' — i.e. lower periods in the calendar — and attracting big events to the city.

"It might be large sporting, music, or conference events. We're aware that we're not just bidding against other UK cities, but other large cities around the world."

And while Annie is actually an Aussie, Manchester has clearly won her heart, and she wants visitors to come and see what the fuss is all about.

"Ultimately, even though I'm not from Manchester, I feel so passionately about Manchester, what better thing is there to be involved in — bringing Manchester to the world," she said.

"It's my favourite city I've worked in, in the UK, because it's such an exciting, dynamic and vibrant city, that it's great from a work and leisure perspective.

"Manchester has so much choice on every level, there's never been a better time to visit us."

LADbible has contacted Manchester City Council for comment.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock

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How Does Visit Manchester Receive Its Funding?

Marketing Manchester is funded through a combination of commercial revenue – including investment from Manchester Airport Group for inbound international campaigns – and local and national public funds .

What type of organization is visit Manchester?

Visit Manchester – The official tourism website for Greater Manchester . Welcome to the official tourism site of Greater Manchester where you can search for things to do in Manchester and find out what’s on, as well as getting inspiration for your visit to this fantastic city region.

How many visitors does Manchester get each year?

Greater Manchester’s tourism sector is worth £7.9 billion and supports 94,000 jobs. The region attracts 119 million visitors per year; 11 million that stay and 108 million day visitors.

How many international visitors does Greater Manchester receive every year?

Of the 1.6m international visits to Greater Manchester in 2018, 1.4m were to Manchester, maintaining its position as the third most visited UK destination, behind London (1) and Edinburgh (2), as detailed below in the first column.

Why do tourists visit Manchester?

Whether it’s the stunning pre-Raphaelite collection at Manchester Art Gallery, dinosaurs at the Manchester Museum, contemporary art at the Whitworth and Lowry, steam engines at the Museum of Science and Industry, horse-drawn trams at the Museum of Transport in Cheetham Hill, a true-to-life experience of battle at the

Where does visit Britain get its funding?

VisitBritain is a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB), funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) . VisitBritain’s mission is to build the value of tourism to Britain by generating additional revenue throughout Britain and throughout the year by creating world-class brands and marketing campaigns.

Who is Visit Britain funded by?

We are the national tourism agency, a non-departmental public body funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) .

What is the most visited town in the UK?

London Top towns for ‘staying visits’ by inbound visitors

What percentage of Manchester is unemployed?

The unemployment rate is ranging between 3.8% in Wigan and 6.6% in Manchester. The UK unemployment rate was 4.1% in 2021.

Why is Manchester so popular?

This vibrant city is what it is today because of its hardworking people and their achievements . The city is famous for many things including, its contributions to music, football, the Industrial Revolution and much more!

How much does Manchester contribute to the UK economy?

The ten metropolitan boroughs of Greater Manchester – Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan – represent the largest city region economy outside London, with a gross value added (GVA) of £74.85 billion .

Why are so many people moving to Manchester?

When moving to a city of international calibre where young people can further their careers, more millennials than ever are moving to Manchester for its reputation as a media city, its available career opportunities, and it’s much more affordable cost of living when compared with other large cities across the country .

Where do most visitors to the UK come from?

After a 7-year rise, to 41.08 million in 2017, tourism to the United Kingdom flatlined in 2018 (40.28 million) and 2019 (40.86 million) before the Covid pandemic hit (11.1 million in 2020 and 6.19 million in 2021).

Why is Manchester a good investment?

With an impressive pipeline of luxury residential developments and student accommodation in the city centre, investors can choose from an array of properties with guaranteed rental yields, capital growth and higher returns .

What are the 3 main reasons why tourists visit?

The three core reasons people travel are leisure tourism, business tourism, and visiting friends and relatives . A leisure tourism trip is a type of vacation that is usually focused on enjoyment and relaxation.

What are the pros and cons of Manchester?

Pros and Cons of Moving to Manchester

• + PRO: A range of accommodation options available.
• + PRO: A variety of job opportunities.
• – CON: Lower salaries.
• + PRO: Excellent public transport networks.
• + PRO: Fantastic nightlife and music scene.
• + PRO: Friendly locals.
• + PRO: Culturally diverse and progressive.

Is VisitBritain owned by the government?

VB is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport .

How does the EU fund visitor attractions?

The EU provides direct funding through grants or indirect funding via financial intermediaries . Grants are advertised through specific calls for proposals.

Does the UK benefit from foreign aid?

These findings suggest that the UK does indeed see a significant positive side effect to its overseas aid spending , but that it might see a bigger benefit if more people overseas were more aware of the good work the UK does through its ODA contributions.

How much of Britain is owned by foreigners?

Overseas nationals own almost 250,000 homes across England and Wales , the latest research by London lettings and estate agents Benham and Reeves shows. In the current market, that is £90.7bn worth of property, suggesting that the UK remains a safe haven for foreign homeowners.

What is the difference between VisitBritain and Visit England?

VisitBritain: Market the nations and regions of Britain overseas to drive growth in international leisure and business tourism. VisitEngland: Maintain distinct activities to develop and market England tourism.

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Manchester's business tourism budget to be revised

Manchester city council's budget to help attract business tourism to the region is set to be reduced.

• 06:00, 22 OCT 2013
• Updated 14:44, 22 OCT 2013

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Manchester city council's budget to help attract business tourism to the region is set to be reduced.

Tourism body Marketing Manchester, which manages the fund on behalf of the city council in a bid to attract more major international business events into the city, is set to receive £3m, a third less than the current funding package, and would be spread over five years.

The Manchester town hall cash is part of the city’s 'subvention' fund for business tourism and does not form part of Marketing Manchester operating budget, which is not changing.

Marketing Manchester’s current deal with the council runs out in 2015. It will have received £4.4m from the town hall since 2010, specifically to promote the city as a conference destination.

But a report going to the council’s executive on Wednesday says it now needs to plan beyond then by putting bids in to host events after 2015, so a new funding package needs to be set in stone.

It recommends a £2.9m grant between 2015 and 2020 – a 34pc cut in funding.

The report says the agency has helped 54 business events into the city over the last three years, particularly to council-owned Manchester Central.

They have included high profile gatherings such as the Labour and Conservative party conferences, worth tens of millions of pounds to the local economy.

Every such pound invested in Marketing Manchester has brought in £59 of investment, according to the report by council chief executive Sir Howard Bernstein.

In future, the council hopes to “strengthen the city’s position as an international conference destination” without providing as much in direct funding.

The new cash commitment would help the city negotiate with global clients who plan their events up to six years in advance, the report says.

The report concludes: “The investment in business events will bring major benefits to the city in terms of increased visitor numbers, economic output and enhanced profile.”

The package will see £1m provided in 2015, followed by £600,000 a year between 2016 and 2018, and £350,000 a year between 2018 and 2020.

Council chiefs will be asked to put the cash aside out of the town hall’s capital reserves. Marketing Manchester receives around a third of its overall funding from Manchester council, with the other nine town halls providing the rest.

Andrew Stokes, chief executive of Marketing Manchester, said: “Manchester’s ongoing plan for the business tourism industry is to contribute to the economic prosperity of the city by investing in and growing the sector, with a particular focus on those conferences that will attract national and international visitors to the city.

“In Manchester, we work very closely with city stakeholders – including the city council, universities, venues and hotels – to ensure that Manchester is capable of delivering a truly world class offering. This joint approach is essential and only yesterday we hosted representatives from two leading surgical associations who signed a contract to bring a unique medical conference known as ‘International Surgical Week’ to Manchester in April 2015. This will attract up to 3,000 visitors to the city in a deal estimated to be worth £5.9m to the local economy.”

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The Guardian view on Manchester’s tourist tax: blazing a trail

Other regions would benefit from a similar levy in the interests of sustainable tourism

V alencia will introduce one by the beginning of next year. Bologna charges €4 a night, about average for an Italian city, and French resorts have been able to impose a taxe de séjour since 1910. But local authorities in Britain have consistently wavered when it comes to imposing a tourist tax similar to those commonplace in the rest of Europe. In recent years Oxford, Bath and Hull reportedly contemplated a levy but decided against it.

At the start of this month, however – in time for the Easter bank holiday weekend – Manchester finally took the plunge, after winning surprisingly strong backing from the city’s hoteliers. Visitors staying in a Manchester city centre hotel or holiday apartment are now required to pay a £1 per night City Visitor Charge. An estimated £3m worth of annual revenue will be dedicated to tourism-related and cultural projects, as well as more mundane necessities such as street cleaning. The Welsh government is preparing to follow suit, giving councils power to institute a levy to pay towards the upkeep of beaches, parks, pavements and footpaths. Edinburgh is reportedly considering a £2 a night tourist tax, subject to approval from the Scottish parliament.

Despite inevitable concerns from businesses fearful of discouraging visitors, particularly in tough economic times, this is surely the right direction of travel. A recent study by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership concluded that replicating the £1 tourism levy across England would raise £428m for local authorities annually. It is true that swingeing cuts to council funding since 2010 put that figure in sobering perspective. But this is nevertheless money that can be used for the common good, in places where there is often an unacceptable gulf between the circumstances of well-heeled seasonal visitors and members of host communities.

In regions such as Cornwall and Cumbria, where the influx of visitors places a heavy load on sometimes crumbling infrastructure, a tourist tax would help share the burden with authorities that are brutally overstretched. In the absence of a fair settlement for local government funding, some recognition of the special requirements of such areas is urgently required. As council officials in thinly populated Cumbria have pointed out, the Department for Transport funds the region’s pot‑holed road network only on a per‑head basis, but many millions of visitors use it to access the Lakes each year.

More broadly, at a time when the debate about the social and environmental impact of tourism has become increasingly tense, a levy provides a means through which communities can exercise some influence and control. Controversies over the proportion of second homes in tourist hotspots such as Whitby have illustrated that a better balance needs to be struck between the interests of residents and visitors in many of the country’s most attractive destinations. Faced with similar challenges, Valencia’s regional parliament intends to devote part of the new tourism tax revenue towards the construction of affordable housing for local residents.

This type of approach can reinvigorate local democracy, inculcate a sense of shared stewardship for places that are part of our national heritage, and ensure that the financial benefits of tourism are more equitably shared. In foreign destinations where levies have been introduced, visitor economies continue to flourish. Manchester has led the way. Others should follow.

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Manchester will become first UK city to charge a 'tourist tax' this week

Tourists visiting Manchester, England, will have to pay a daily fee as part of a new "visitor charge."

Authorities in Britain's third-largest city will implement the tax April 1, charging visitors staying in city-center hotels or rental apartments per room for each night of stay.

The hope is that the daily charge of 1 pound (about $1.23) will not deter travelers from visiting the city and instead raise some 3 million pounds ($3.6 million) a year to help build up local infrastructure.

It comes amid a major expansion of Manchester's hospitality sector, which will see nearly 6,000 hotel rooms added over the coming years. It's one that hoteliers hope will lead to an extra 1 million overnight stays.

It is the first initiative of its kind to be unveiled in the United Kingdom following the success of similar ones in tourist destinations like Venice, Italy ; Barcelona; and Rome.

In November, Edinburgh, Scotland, announced plans to charge visitors 2 pounds ($2.46) per night to stay in the historic city in the near future. TPG wrote about the initial proposal pre-pandemic in 2019.

The initiative will help fund the new Manchester Accommodation Business Improvement District, or ABID, which is designed to "improve the visitor experience" and "support future growth of the visitor economy" over the next five years.

Related: Tourism taxes are making international trips more expensive

"I think [the message it sends] has been a consideration; however, when you compare it to European cities that have had taxes and visitor levies in place for a number of years, we feel it's a small amount comparatively," ABID chair Annie Brown said, downplaying any effects the cost-of-living crisis might have.

Brown adds that other U.K. cities plan to implement a similar program and doesn't believe the charge is off-putting.

"We will get the attractions and cleaning, and deliver against our business plan. It's going to be the largest accommodation BID outside of central London in terms of the revenue it generates," shared Brown.

How much is the tax, and where will I pay it?

The fee is 1 British pound per room for every night you stay.

Visit Manchester says 74 hotels will charge the fee, all of which lie inside the city's inner ring road.

How will I pay the charge?

Visit Manchester hasn't said how exactly the charge will be levied. However, if it's anything like similar initiatives in mainland Europe, it will be added to your bill, payable at the end of your stay.

How does the visitor tax compare with other destinations?

Relative to other vacation hot spots in Europe, Manchester's tax is still relatively cheap. A number of other cities and regions apply "visitor fees" to tourists.

Rome, for example, charges a "tassa di soggiorno" (holiday tax) of between 3 euros ($3.24) and 7 euros ($7.56) per night, depending on the star rating of your hotel. That is payable on the first 10 nights of a stay.

On the other hand, Venice only charges for the first five nights of a stay, at a rate of between 1 euro ($1.08) and 5 euros ($5.40) per night, depending on the hotel star rating.

However, you cannot dodge the tax by staying outside the floating city. Those planning to make day visits must instead pay a tax of between 3 euros ($3.24) and 10 euros ($10.80) per day, depending on how busy the city is.

Spain's most-visited city, Barcelona, requires tourists to pay different rates depending on which type of accommodation they stay in. The fee is only applied to regulated, official tourist accommodations.

Someone in a regulated tourist rental apartment currently pays 2.25 euros ($2.43) per night to the region and 1.75 euros ($1.89) to the city — a total of 4 euros ($4.32).

Someone in a five-star hotel, however, pays 3.50 euros ($3.78) per night to the region and the same 1.75 euros to the city.

However, that 1.75 euro fee to the city will increase to 2.75 euros ($2.97) on April 1, 2023, then again to 3.25 euros ($3.51) in April 2024.

That means by April 2024, a five-night stay in a five-star hotel in Barcelona will cost 33.75 euros ($36.45) on top of the hotel room rate.

While not yet in force, Hawaii has set in motion new legislation that would require that visitors pay a yearly license of $50 to use any of the state-owned parks, beaches, forests or hiking trails.

Billed as a "green fee," it would be used to help limit the impact of overcrowding on the island's most popular outdoor attractions and to support environmental conversation efforts.

Green-fee advocates have told TPG the money would provide a sustained funding pool for community organizations, state agencies and local governments to implement and scale conservation work throughout Hawaii.

"If we don't take substantial action, not only will the visitor experience be degraded, more importantly, we will have failed to be good caretakers of the Hawai'i we call home," said Hawaii Gov. Josh Green.

How to visit Manchester on a budget: from free transport to cheap eats

Apr 21, 2022 • 7 min read

This guide to visiting Manchester on a budget can help your money go further © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

Manchester may be cheaper than London, but a trip to this Northern powerhouse can still set you back a pretty penny. Visiting outside of high season and avoiding weekends when big football matches are on will help keep your bank balance healthy.

There’s also a bevy of other money-saving tips to bear in mind. From a free bus service that runs continuously around the city center to cheap hotel deals and half-price dining offers, here’s how to enjoy Manchester on a budget.

Take advantage of the free city center bus

Manchester city center is actually fairly compact and easily walkable. If you've only got a couple of days to explore though, you could save some time by flagging down the free bus . 

Run by Transport for Greater Manchester, there are three different route options that weave around the city. All of them start and end at Manchester Piccadilly station and leave regularly every 10 to 20 minutes. Note that route three only runs in the evenings until 11.30pm. 

Go on a free walking tour

Exploring a city for the first time can be a little overwhelming, and even more so if you haven’t got much money to spend. A great thing to do if you’re a newbie to Manchester is to take advantage of the Free Manchester Walking Tour . These convene daily at 11am at the Alan Turing Statue in Sackville Gardens. They’re run by born and bred Mancunians who not only know their city like the back of their hands but love it to bits, too. 

Check into one of the city’s hostels 

Choose your accommodations carefully and you can save some money on your visit to Manchester. The vast majority of the budget hotels and hostels in Manchester are safe and well located. This includes a YHA a short hop from the canal-side pubs of Castlefield. Keen to stay in the Northern Quarter? Private rooms with cool vintage-inspired decor start at £60 at Selina NQ1 . 

Visit the free museums

Some of the best cheap things to do in Manchester won’t actually cost you a thing . This includes its many museums which, like most other UK cities, are completely free to enter.

The Science and Industry Museum is packed with interactive exhibits on everything from Manchester’s early railways – the first in the world – to modern space travel. You could also expand your knowledge of women’s suffrage at The Pankhurst Centre or discover more about Manchester’s most notorious criminals at the Greater Manchester Police Museum .

And don’t forget those free art galleries, either

Have a passion for the Pre-Raphaelites? Or is it Warhol’s bold pop art that catches your eye? Manchester is home to a handful of galleries with permanent collections that are both impressive and free. Manchester Art Gallery is easily the largest and it sits a few minutes from Manchester Town Hall . Alternatively, walk or bus down Oxford Road to the Whitworth Gallery that’s surrounded by one of Manchester's best city parks . 

Students often get discounts

Manchester has a huge student population, so it’s really no surprise that so many businesses offer brilliant discounts for those still in education. These range from fashion stores and restaurants to coffee shops and supermarkets. You can even get 15% off escape room experiences at Escape Hunt in the Corn Exchange. 

Enjoy some fresh air at Heaton Park

On the subject of parks, heading to one for a stroll or a lazy picnic is another budget-friendly thing to do in Manchester. Heaton Park is by far the largest and it’s about 6.5km (4 miles) north of the center. 

Take in the views of pretty Heaton Hall, wander through areas of wild woodland, or find a private patch of grass to spread a blanket out on. The park is easily reached by tram or you could save yourself a little bit of money with a Manchester PlusBus day pass that gives you unlimited bus travel for £4.20.

Shop for bargains at the city’s thrift stores

Many people head to Manchester to splurge, whether that’s in the mammoth Trafford Centre on the edge of the city or in the chic designer stores along King Street. If you’ve got less cash to spend, there are also some real bargains to be found in Manchester’s many thrift stores. 

The Northern Quarter and East Didsbury house some of the best options, although some stores have better stock than others. Oxfam Originals always has some real gems including recognizable luxury labels. Afflecks Palace  – an independent shopping emporium packed with quirky boutiques – is another great place to pick up vintage Levi’s, rare band tees, and high-quality jackets.

Visit between January and May for the cheapest deals

The best time to visit Manchester for cheaper hotel prices and fewer crowds is between January and May. This falls outside the busy festive period and before the new football season kicks off in late August/early September.

It’s still worth booking your accommodations a month or so in advance. If you're traveling by train, cheap rail tickets to Manchester are usually released six weeks in advance by major companies like Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express . You can also bag cheap flights to Manchester from various UK and European cities. 

Look out for discounted food deals

Eating out needn’t be expensive. Many restaurants in Manchester offer 50% off your food bill in January, while a bunch also have regular deals throughout the year. 

Tuck into half-price burgers and gourmet sandwiches at the Pen and Pencil on Mondays or enjoy half-price pizza slices from buzzing music venue YES every day between 12pm and 6pm. Celebrating a special occasion? 20 Stories  – one of Manchester’s poshest restaurants with 360 degree views – has a surprisingly affordable mid-week lunch menu that features three courses for £23.50.

Treat your taste buds on the Curry Mile 

One of the best places to find cheap food in Manchester is the city’s so-called Curry Mile. This culinary melting pot has restaurants and takeaway outlets spread out along Wilmslow Road in the studenty area of Rusholme. 

There are over 70 venues (many award-winning) serving up fragrant delicacies from India, Pakistan, and the Middle East. Most are very affordable; check out Jaffa Restaurant for mouth-watering mezze or order spice-laden curries from no-frills Al Madina. 

Enjoy the pay-per-minute coffee at Oppidan Social 

Oppidan Social ’s pay-per-minute business model makes it a cheap place to catch up with friends, do a little bit of work, or grab a coffee in between attractions. The Manchester branch is on Edge Street and feels a little bit like visiting an older relative's house thanks to its eclectic mix of cozy furnishings and tables piled high with complimentary sandwiches and cakes. For just 8p a minute though, you can’t really go wrong.

Eat for a good cause – and to save your bank balance – at Open Kitchen 

Check out the relatively new cafe-restaurant in the lobby of the  People’s History Museum . Open Kitchen ’s ever-changing menu features ingredients that are either completely sustainable or have been rescued from being binned by other Manchester businesses. Meals are cheaper than your average cafe too, with small bites and sandwiches starting at £3.50.

Plan a budget night out at one of Manchester’s free music venues

Cheap nights out in Manchester are entirely possible and there’s usually somewhere offering free entry. The Deaf Institute frequently hosts free gigs in its beautiful upstairs music hall. Alternatively, the Night & Day Cafe in the Northern Quarter stays open late and its Saturday Loose Joints DJ sets are always free entry.

Heaps of Manchester bars and pubs additionally host live music nights during the week. This includes jazz concerts at Matt & Phreds in the Northern Quarter and acoustic sets at The Thirsty Scholar pub next to Manchester Oxford Road station. 

Daily costs in Manchester

Hostel room: £12–35 (dorm room) Basic room for two: £50–100 Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): From £65 Public transport ticket: £4.20 PlusBus day ticket, Metro all zones pass £7.10 Cup of coffee: £2.50–3.50 Brunch in the Northern Quarter: £8–12 Beer/pint at the bar: £4–5 Music gig tickets: £5–50

You might also like: The 11 best city parks in Manchester    The best neighborhoods in Manchester: cutting-edge culture, fabulous food and next-level nightlife    7 of the best day trips from Manchester: cities, peaks, and seaside are all within reach

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Investing in our communities and people - Council agrees budget for 2023/24

Manchester City Council has today (Friday 3 March 2023) set its budget, including its element of Council Tax, for 2023/24.

More than half of the Council’s £736.2m revenue budget will go on helping those most in need – caring for and supporting adults, children and people facing homelessness (£441.2m, 60%.) 

The next biggest slice goes on neighbourhood services such as waste and recycling, maintaining roads and pavements and providing parks, libraries and leisure centres (£108.5m, 15%.) 

Growth and development – helping attract investment and jobs and get much-needed homes including affordable homes built – and a range of behind-the-scenes services which enable staff to work for the city together account for 14% (£102.7m.) 

The remainder goes on corporate budgets to help fund the city’s public transport, invest in building projects and provide contingency funding to help the Council meet any unexpected costs during the year (11%, £82.9m.) 

Extra cost of living support  

This year’s budget includes £5.5m of additional targeted support for the most vulnerable residents and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to boost their work helping Manchester people who are struggling the most during the cost of living crisis.  

There will  be further funding for voluntary and community groups providing community hubs, good neighbours groups and other support across the city.  

There will also be new support, in addition to existing welfare provision schemes, to help anyone struggling with outstanding Council Tax debts. This is in addition to the Council Tax support scheme which already given tens of thousands of the lowest paid Manchester people substantial reductions in their bills.  

Other extra investments  

The budget also includes £26.4m extra for adult social care to support our residents, strengthen the social care sector and help ease some of the well-documented pressures on the NHS by discharging people from hospital appropriately. 

The budget includes a £4m increase in the homelessness service budget to help manage pressures and give breathing space for savings from increased prevention and reduced use of temporary accommodation to be realised, and £3.3m investment in children’s services to increase prevention and help with higher placement costs.  

An extra £1.5m in funding for cleaning and managing the city, and a £0.7m fund for small but urgent improvements around the city – for example fixing broken swings and replacing litter bins – is also included in the 2023/24 budget.  

Savings and Council Tax  

Set against this, unfunded budget pressures including inflation and the need to ensure services are in a sustainable position to cope with steep cuts to Government funding expected from 2025/26 onwards mean that £36.2m of savings are being brought forward over the next three years. £15.3m of those savings will be realised in 2023/24. They involve efficiencies or increased income generation rather than service reductions.  

The Council’s element of Council Tax has increased by 4.99% - a 2.99% general increase plus a 2% precept towards adult social care costs. The Government’s funding settlement calculations effectively assume that local authorities, such as Manchester City Council, with social care responsibilities will increase Council Tax by this amount, the maximum allowed with the requirement for a local referendum. 

Councillor  Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council , said:

“The Council provides a wide range of services that are used by everybody in the city, whether their lives are going well or they are finding things a bit more difficult and need some extra support.  

“We are acutely aware of the cost of living crisis which is why we are providing a vital helping hand to those who need it the most while continuing to invest in the services which help the city to thrive and make it a great place to live in.” 

Councillor  Rabnawaz Akbar, Executive Member for Finance ,  said:

“Managing our budget remains challenging. We’ve had to make £428m of savings since 2010 to cope with the impact of Government funding cuts and unfunded budget pressures such as inflation and a growing population. 

“It’s a difficult balancing act but we continue to look to the future for the whole city and its people as well as ensuring that support is in place for those who need it right now.”  

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