The Box boosts city's economy by £244m

THE Box has boosted Plymouth's economy by £244m since it opened five years ago, a new report says.

- By JANET KING

The city museum, gallery and archive centre opened in September 2020 and was the result of an ambitious £47m regeneration project.

The report, by Counterculture LLP, which provides services for the creative and cultural sectors, reveals that people have visited The Box 1.1 million times.

Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: "Five years ago, we made a bold decision to invest in culture when many cities were cutting back. Today, The Box stands as proof that Plymouth refuses to accept second-best. This isn't just about impressive statistics, though a £244 million economic impact speaks volumes, it's about transforming how the world sees Plymouth and how we see ourselves.

"The Box has given our city permission to dream bigger, to compete with London and Manchester on the cultural stage while never forgetting that our strength comes from serving local families who can walk through those doors for free every single day.

"We've created something that's authentically Plymouth yet commands international respect. That's the Plymouth way, rooted in our community, reaching for the stars."

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: "This institution has generated nearly a quarter-of-a-billion pounds in economic impact, delivered over £100m in health benefits, and positioned Plymouth alongside Britain's premiere cultural destinations."