Open to bring multi-millionpound boost

CARNOUSTIE: Angus Council’s leader hoping local firms make the most of the influx of visitors

Tayside’s economy will get a multi-million-pound boost from the Open returning to Carnoustie this summer.

When the Championship was last held at the Angus venue 11 years it was estimated it triggered £11.3 million in direct spending in the area.

An analysis of 2016’s tournament at Royal Troon showed £23m was spent in the surrounding area.

Angus Council’s leader Bob Myles said: “This time around, the R&A estimate the positive economic impact to Scotland from the Open will be around £70m.

“As such, we have been working in close partnership with the local community, as well as the R&A, Carnoustie Golf Links Trust and other partners, to ensure both opportunities and enjoyment of this prestigious event are taken in full.

“We want to ensure that we showcase Angus as a great destination and give visitors a warm welcome that makes them want to return and explore our region again.”

Golf tourism is responsible for around 870 jobs in Angus and has an annual economic impact of £19.6m.

The council’s business team has created a guide, called Open Ready Business Toolkit, to help local firms maximise their commercial potential before, during and after the Open.

Mr Myles added he hoped the tournament would also encourage the worldwide television audience to visit the county.

“The global reach of this event has changed out of all recognition from where it was in 2007, when Carnoustie last hosted the Open,” he added.

“The growth in digital technology and the ways in which this elite tournament is watched will result in an exposure that Carnoustie and Angus has never experienced before.

“We very much look forward to it.”

Picture: Getty Images. Padraig Harrington was the last winner of the Open in Carnoustie in 2007.