Labour Party Conference in Manchester for third time
22 September 2010
The Labour Party will be in Manchester again for the third time following successful conferences in 2006 and 2008.
Manchester will also be the platform for the announcement of the party's new leader during a special pre-conference event on Saturday 25 September.
The conference, itself, will run from Sunday 26 September until Thursday 30 September.
The political parties are so impressed by Manchester's convention facilities, including Manchester Central, the range of accommodation and ability to host a major event that they've decided to use the city as a regular conference destination. Last year the Conservatives were here - they're back again next year - and Labour has booked for 2012 and 2014.
The leader of Manchester City Council, Sir Richard Leese, said: "Manchester is now firmly established as a major conference destination and has been booked as a venue for the next four years bringing huge economic benefits to the city and surrounding areas. The city has earned a reputation for efficiently hosting major events and ensuring conference is a positive experience for delegates, residents, businesses and visitors."
More than £16 million of economic benefit was generated for the region as a result of the Conservative Party Conference in 2009 and the Labour Party Conference the year before generated more than £15 million. It's estimated that this year's conference should bring in around £15.5 million.
Paul Simpson, managing director of Visit Manchester, the tourist board for the city region, said: "The Labour Party Annual Conference is one of the biggest political conventions in Europe. With the added excitement this year of the result of the party's leadership contest, Manchester will be in the political spotlight more so than ever before. It's a perfect showcase for how the city can handle major conferences and events and we look forward to welcoming the delegates to Manchester."
Superintendent Bryan Lawton, planning coordinator for Greater Manchester Police's Operation Protector, said: "Having the conference in Manchester is a fantastic opportunity for the city, bringing extra visitors and revenue to the area and giving GMP the chance to showcase its experience of policing large-scale events."
