Latest data released by the Isle of Man Government’s Department for Enterprise highlighted increasing attendance for both the main TT event in May/June 2017, as well as August’s Festival of Motorcycling fortnight incorporating the Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix.
TT figures were 6.2% up to 45,054 visitors. The Festival of Motorcycling managed a more modest 2.9% rise to 16,218 — but that tally is about 80% higher than the first survey of this type carried out at the 2009 Manx GP.
Overall expenditure by these visitors on travel, accommodation, subsistence and entertainment is estimated to have reached £44m, with about £10m of that attributable to the Festival of Motorcycling. Department for Enterprise beancounters reckon this injected a direct £31m contribution into the Island’s local economy.