Hull has seen a £224.8 million boost since 2015 thanks to the creative and cultural sector.
New research commissioned by the council evidences a 20 per cent increase in GVA in the culture and creative sector since 2015, with around 7,000 people now working in creative industries in the city.
Results also show an £18 million wage equivalent from volunteering in 2022-23 alone from assessing the HEY! Volunteer programme, alongside £25.9 million well-being benefits for those participating in creative and cultural activities.
The research has been conducted by KADA Research, specialists in economic development consultancy, who as part of this work have compiled a creative asset database for the city.
The database includes any locations that support culture and creativity to take place, whether that be a venue or community centre.
The report explores the findings and learnings from the database and the council are using it to consider how best to support cultural infrastructure moving forward.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said:
“The results of this research are great news for the city and the future of culture and creativity as a major industry.
“The asset database will become an extremely valuable tool, acting as a directory for future event planning in the city.
“All of the information gathered from this in-depth research will help us to inform the new cultural strategy which is currently in development.”
The research was presented to members of the creative and cultural sector at an event last week and is available to view here.
Results will be used to move plans forward for a UNESCO Creative City of Music bid in 2025.
