Economics of Cultural Activity
11.11 The economic contribution of cultural activity to the South West can be counted in terms of business turnover, employment rates, and spend. The relatively high amount spent both by households on ‘recreation and culture’ compared to other items and by visitors to the region indicates that culture is a significant contributor to the economic health of the South West on the demand side.
11.12 On the supply side, growth in turnover by businesses in the cultural sector is a positive indicator of economic well-being with a 29% increase in sector turnover on current prices between 1998 and 2005, (ONS 2006). According to latest Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR: 2007) figures, there were 29,900 businesses registered, employing 183,475 people and generating turnover of £10.6 billion.