An independent report recently published by Sneddon Economics and Hecla Consulting has predicted that Eden Court’s economic impact in the Highlands and Islands will rise to approximately £6million by 2009/2010, sustaining 357 jobs across the region.
The study was undertaken to assess the current economic impact of Eden Court and to estimate further benefits to the region from the redevelopment of Eden Court, set to be completed by December 2006.
Ewan Sneddon of Sneddon Economics and Hecla Consulting said:
“The positive economic impacts of Eden Court are widespread and highly significant to the Highlands and Islands and the Moray regions of Scotland. An enormous pan-Regional long term economic boost will result from the completion of this project in a timely manner.”
The study estimated that in 2002/2003 Eden Court contributed £3.5 million to the Highlands and Islands economy and this will increase to £5.9 million after the proposed capital project.
These figures were calculated by economists based on Eden Court’s projected activities post 2007 which include 6 weeks of major conferences per annum, year round visits to the region by performers and crews, plus expenditure on supplies from firms in the Highlands and Islands.
Economists strongly assert that Eden Court provides a key role in attracting new businesses helping to entice and retain key personnel across the private sector. By 2010 Eden Court will support 100 full time equivalent posts and the business will indirectly support another 235 jobs across the region. The capital project itself, costing £15 million will also secure 22 positions in the construction industry.
Speaking on behalf of Eden Court, Director Colin Marr said:
“Obviously our major impacts are cultural and social but it’s great to know we make such a large financial contribution as well.”
Capital Development Manager Donna Chisholm added:
“The new Eden Court will create a cultural asset of national importance for the Highlands and Islands. This economic report is further acknowledgement of the significance of Eden Court to the region.”
The study also foresees the redeveloped Eden Court creating a wide range of social benefits across the region including playing a vital part in celebrating the 2007 Scottish Year of Highland Culture.
The City Vision Planning Document places Eden Court at the centre of ambitious proposals for a vibrant riverside Cultural Quarter. This would include a relocated city museum and gallery, new genealogy centre and artists’ studios and lofts. Eden Court is seen as a catalyst for this development over the next decade.
Eden Court will also expand the range of community based arts education activities - 50% of Eden Court’s highly acclaimed Outreach programme currently takes place outside Inverness. Artists based in the region will also benefit from increased creative and economic opportunities through Eden Court’s ability to stage more performances and exhibitions.
The plans for the redeveloped Eden Court include the construction of a second theatre, two new state-of-the-art cinemas and two studios for education use. The historic Bishop’s Palace will be renovated to provide meeting rooms and improved office accommodation. A new dressing room block will also be built along with major improvements to all public areas including toilets, bars, restaurant and box office.
This will enable Eden Court to increase all areas of its work – live events, cinema and education. Importantly for the region this development will also lead to an increase in the conferences accommodated within the venue.
Construction will begin in early June 2005 and is due to be completed at the end of 2006.
If you would like any further information contact Martin Cameron in the first instance on 01463 239841 or mcameron@eden-court.co.uk.
