A Successful Summer for Telford
SUCCESSFUL SUMMER FOR TELFORD AS EVENTS DRIVE VISITORS ACROSS THE DESTINATION
Telford has enjoyed a busy and successful summer, with a programme of events and activities bringing people together and creating more reasons to visit Telford Centre and the wider town.
Telford Centre delivered a programme of events and free family entertainment across the summer. Around 1,000 people took part in The Gaming Grid during its week-long run, followed by Summer Saturdays throughout August.
Earlier in the summer, the Centre’s Matchday Multiplier was also a success, with its spend-and-win mechanic generating more than £25,000 in additional spend across stores from event participants, while engaging 27 local football teams.
Positive performance continued across the summer, with July footfall up 3.2% year-on-year and August performing 1.6% ahead of the UK year-on-year benchmark.
Major events across the wider town also had a noticeable impact. Telford Krazy Races attracted around 7,000 attendees in its first year in the Borough, while Telford Centre recorded a 33% increase in footfall on the day compared with the equivalent day the previous year.
Glynn Morrow, Centre Manager at Telford Centre, said: “It’s been a really positive summer for Telford. Alongside our own programme of activity at the Centre, we’ve seen some fantastic events taking place across the town which have brought people together and encouraged more visitors into the destination.
“What is particularly encouraging is seeing how that activity translates into increased footfall and supports businesses across Telford. It demonstrates the strength of the town when we work collectively as a destination.”
The positive performance was also reflected in feedback from Telford Centre retailers, with several reporting significant year-on-year sales growth, supported by strong demand for products including trainers, summer clothing and branded apparel.
Success was seen across the wider town too. Spring into St George’s Day attracted more than 6,500 attendees, around 30% higher than 2025, while the reopening of Telford Town Park Amphitheatre attracted around 3,000 visitors during its opening weekend and more than 7,800 attendees across its first summer season. The Telford Balloon Fiesta Night Glow also sold out once again, welcoming 7,500 attendees.
Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said: “The success of this year’s events programme demonstrates the important role that culture, leisure and events play in supporting Telford’s visitor economy. Alongside creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors, our events help attract thousands of people into the Borough, increase footfall and encourage visitors to explore our town centre, attractions, hospitality venues and local businesses.
“Working closely with our partners, we are continuing to build a varied and accessible programme of events that strengthens Telford’s reputation as a vibrant destination, supports local economic growth and gives people even more reasons to visit, stay and spend time in the Borough.”
The impact of events and activity across Telford has also been felt throughout the wider visitor economy, with hospitality businesses reporting increased trade during key events.
Alison Griffin, Managing Director at Telford International Centre, said: “Telford International Centre plays a leading role in the success of the town’s visitor economy. By attracting large-scale conferences, exhibitions and events, we bring thousands upon thousands of visitors to Telford every year, who spend with local hotels, restaurants, retailers and other businesses.
“This creates a positive ripple effect across the local economy; supporting jobs, increasing footfall and showcasing Telford as a vibrant and welcoming destination for both business and leisure.”
The successful summer comes alongside continued investment across Telford, including the opening of the new Sixth Form Centre, as well as new retailers and store investments at Telford Centre.
Looking ahead, there is plenty more to come, with further events and new openings set to continue bringing visitors to Telford Centre and the wider town.
