Visitor numbers rise

According to figures from the Moffat Centre — a research centre for tourism based at Glasgow Caledonian University — there was a 5.7% increase in the number of people heading to visitor attractions during the period, or 59,443 people.

As the year draws to a close, VisitScotland regional director Jim Clarkson said 2016 had been a “groundbreaking” year for tourism in the region.

He said: “Evidence suggests that Dundee and Angus have enjoyed one of the busiest tourism years in recent memory with attractions such as the Discovery Point and Verdant Works among a number of businesses reporting an increase in visitor numbers in 2016.

“The hugely popular Oor Wullies Bucket Trail has been a success story

More than 70,000 locals and visitors are estimated to have taken part in the public art event.

Dundee and Angus played a starring role i n the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design with events taking place throughout the year.

Dundee also hosted the grand finale of the Festival of Architecture in November.

Mr Clarkson said a contributing factor to the boost in numbers had been the i ntroduction of direct flights between Dundee and Amsterdam.

He said: “The new route from Flybe has ensured that Dundee, and the surrounding area, is more connected than ever before — giving us a louder voice within key markets.”

Mr Clarkson added that 22 businesses across the region have signed up to become a VisitScotland Information Partner (VIP).

The programme ties in with the global Spirit of Scotland campaign, helping visitors make the most of their trip to Scotland.

He said: “From Willowbank House in Arbroath to the Dundee Museum of Transport, we’ve seen a great response.”

DUNDEE and Angus welcomed an extra 59,000 people to visitor attractions between January and October this year.

A farewell gathering for the public saw all the Oor Wullies together in Slessor Gardens. The event proved a huge draw for visitors.

VisitScotland said flights to Amsterdam have helped boost numbers.