One of the world’s most popular girl groups could bring millions of pounds into Dundee later this week, according to a city council chief.
The local authority’s city centre manager, Sarah Craig, said the economic boost of having 11,000 Little Mix fans descend on Slessor Gardens is “something that we are capturing” – but is likely to be a seven-figure sum.
The X Factor stars are due to play on the waterfront on Thursday evening, with Dundee hotels and restaurants expected to be packed out.
It comes after Police Scotland announced its ramped-up security effort would result in armed officers patrolling the gig venue, while security measures including bag searches will take place.
This is in response to the terrorist attack at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester which left 22 people dead on May 22.
Ms Craig said: “I have written out to all businesses seeking feedback on their bookings and certainly the feedback I’ve had so far has been incredibly positive.
“Hotels are fully booked, restaurants are booked, a lot of our travel providers have been booked for taxi services, chauffeur services. From that respect income generation is very positive for the city, and the economic benefits.”
She added: “As you’d expect planning for this concert has been underway for quite some time now. We have 11,000 concertgoers coming to the city in just two days’ time to see what is the world’s biggest girl band.
“It is a massive coup for Dundee and hopefully going forward many more bands will come to the city, and that is certainly the discussions we’ll be having.
“As you would expect after the tragic events in Manchester and London security arrangements at public events has been stepped up. We’re very robust up here in our planning processes in any case. In light of recent events we’ve reviewed all our plans.
“The rain will not dampen spirits and certainly the forecast for Thursday, if you pardon the pun, is a little bit mixed so come prepared.
“It is an outdoor event, it is on grass, so make sure that you are wearing comfortable flat shoes and bring a jacket with a hood because umbrellas are not great at outdoor concerts because they do spoil the view.”
Road closures will come into effect at 2pm on Thursday, coinciding with the last day of school in Dundee.
Ms Craig said: “What we will ask people to do is avoid leaving it to the last minute to come into the concert, leave plenty of time for your journey.”
