29/10/2010 - Boost for NewcastleGateshead hotels
Hotel occupancy in Newcastle and Gateshead registered strong growth this summer despite the economic uncertainties, new figures show.
Occupancy was 2% higher from summer 2009, with an average of 78% of hotel rooms in the city centre and quayside areas booked during the months of June, July and August.
The figures for September rose to a five-year high of 83% as visitors flocked to the city for the 30th Great North Run.
Sarah Stewart, interim chief executive at destination marketing agency NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: "This is a timely indication that despite the inevitable impact of the economic spending review, it's not all doom and gloom.
"NewcastleGateshead is experiencing strong hotel occupancy figures and despite a less than temperate summer we have attracted a growing number of visitors to stay in the city - for short breaks, cultural and sporting events and to attend business meetings, events and conferences."
Hotels in the occupancy survey included the Malmaison Newcastle, Copthorne Hotel, County Hotel by Thistle, Premier Inn Newcastle City Centre, Jurys Inn Newcastle, and Hilton Newcastle Gateshead.
Meanwhile, plans for the construction of four new hotels are under way as the latest growth figures reinforce Newcastle's position as one of the best performing cities outside London.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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