TOURISM to Newport has almost doubled in recent years, according to the latest statistics.

STEAM, which is an independent economic activity model used by all councils in Wales, has produced the visitor report for 2017.

It shows that the visitor economy in Newport has almost doubled since 2006 and the growth last year, compared with 2016, was 3.5 per cent meaning the industry had a total financial impact of £396.56 million per year.

In 2017, the number of overnight stays increased by more than four per cent – with around 750,000 people spending one or more nights - despite the number of hotel rooms staying the same.

Key events such as the annual Newport Food Festival also helped to boost overnight stays and day visits.

Councillor Debbie Wilcox, leader of Newport City Council, said: “These figures are excellent news for the city and show we have a growing tourism sector making an important contribution to the local economy.

“Newport has a lot to offer with some fantastic attractions."

“With the opening of the International Convention Centre Wales next year, we can expect the upward trend of the tourism economy to continue.

“Work is progressing well on the new Mercure Hotel in Chartist Tower, also due to open next year, and I’m sure we will see more hotels following to meet the inevitable demand.

“Work is progressing well on the new Mercure Hotel in Chartist Tower, also due to open next year, and I’m sure we will see more hotels following to meet the inevitable demand.”