EDF festival £1 million boost for local economy

Eilean Dorcha Festival (EDF), has generated £1 million for the Uist economy, according to an independent economic assessment.

The summer music event on Benbecula bounced back from its enforced two-year Covid break with an extra night and a record crowd numbers.

This year’s three-day festival, held in July, was headlined by Scotland’s number one DJ George Bowie, performing his acclaimed GBX show; Skerryvore and local favourites, Beinn Lee as well as Trail West.

An economic impact study by MKA Economics of Stirling revealed a 61% boost in visitor spend to £999,845.

Festival development Manager, Roddy MacKay, hailed the “remarkable result” given the challenges in the aftermath of the pandemic .

“We could see during the weekend that the festival was a big success, but we have been blown away by the economic findings, he said.

"The study demonstrates the power communities have when they pull together to organise an event that helps build a positive, ambitious future, and that was particularly relevant this year.”

A shock last-minute cancellation by the tent supply company left organisers in the lurch, meaning the gig would not be under cover as planned.

“Suddenly we had to rearrange the full event from indoor to outdoor at the last minute. A call went out for assistance, and the community came to the rescue in their droves,” he added.

It meant a change of stage, sound, lighting, and a new event safety plan.

Mr Mackay said: “It effectively meant a completely new event had to be drawn up in a week but, somehow, we managed to pull it off and people clearly enjoyed themselves.

Nicknamed the ‘friendly festival’ by visitors, EDF also caters for young people.

“We are very proud that, for just a £10 weekend ticket, children of primary school age can enjoy not just the music, but a variety of fun activities, while anyone under five years receives free admission. It lends to a great family-friendly atmosphere.

“In addition to the overall family experience, it is important that EDF delivers a substantial economic benefit for local businesses.

“But to achieve an economic boost of £1 million for the area in our first festival post-Covid is something we are incredibly proud of and a return of 14:1 for every pound received in public funding is particularly pleasing.

“It is our ambition to keep building on our success, to enhance the festival experience even further, and to make Eilean Dorcha Festival an unmissable occasion as part of a must-visit destination."

EDF festival £1 million boost for local economy

10 October 2022