In a written reply to a Tynwald question from Bill Henderson (Douglas North), Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly said he strongly supported the concept of a year-round TT attraction.

Mr Skelly said over the three years to 2013, the TT and Festival of Motorcycling had seen a 33 per cent increase in visitor numbers, 35 per cent in visitor spending and 46 per cent in government income.

He said while no final figures were yet available for 2014, all information from public and private sources indicate further substantial growth this year.

Mr Skelly said:

‘I am keen to build on this success in several ways. A physical TT attraction such as a visitor centre and interactive museum could allow us to attract TT fans all year round, boosting visitor numbers.

‘My department has already engaged several parties to investigate this concept, including Manx National Heritage. I have instructed my officers to investigate this further as a high priority.’

He said this was also linked to the concept of the TT World Series which he said could allow the TT brand to be promoted in key cities around the world.

Mr Skelly said the concept of a TT attraction is linked to other possible developments in the island. With government income limited, a ‘virtual development team’ had been formed to pursue several potentially valuable sites and projects for development.



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