Anvil Arts has revealed its activities generated a net economic impact of £7.3 million in Basingstoke and Deane in 2023-24.

The arts charity, which operates The Anvil and The Haymarket, published the findings in its latest economic impact report, produced by BOP Consulting.

The report shows the charity's activities generated nearly £14 for every £1 of public investment, an increase from £5 million in 2010. This figure also includes a gross value added (GVA) of £4.2 million and the creation of 130 jobs beyond its own staff.

The report confirmed the significant role the arts play in boosting the visitor economy and stimulating economic growth. The Anvil, a 1,400-seat concert hall, is one of the UK's top five concert venues, while the 400-seat, Grade II-listed Haymarket caters to local performances and family shows.

The Anvil Arts charity attracted around 200,000 people to Basingstoke in 2023-24, with 64 per cent of ticket-buying audiences coming from outside the town.

These visitors spent more on food, drink, and shopping than local audiences, with an average spend of £38 for non-locals compared to just over £25 for locals.

The charity's activities also resulted in a doubling of overnight stays linked to performances. More than two-thirds of all audiences reported they would not have visited the town centre if they hadn’t had tickets for a performance.

Anvil Arts also engaged nearly 10,000 young people in school projects and nearly 3,000 young people in concerts.

The charity hosted over 400 events and shows, delivering a comprehensive community engagement programme.

Anvil Arts chief executive Matthew Cleaver said: "Despite an incredibly tough few years and the continuing challenges of the economic climate, our impact report clearly demonstrates the value that investment in arts and culture brings and the vital role it plays. Arts and culture are drivers of growth and opportunity – every pound invested in Anvil Arts circulates through the local economy, supporting jobs, businesses and the town’s future development.

"We’re delighted to see an increase across the board in audience numbers, spend and overnight stays. It really shows that Basingstoke is a destination for culture. We intend to keep building on our success and create more opportunities for all communities to engage with us, build new partnerships and attract ever broader audiences."