The Kelpies generate £81m in economic value in a decade

Thousands are expected to descend on the home of Scotland’s iconic Kelpies this weekend (Saturday, April 27) to celebrate a decade of the magnificent structures. 

Visitors from across the globe will travel to Falkirk to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the world’s largest equine structures adding to the 7.3 million total visitors who have travelled to see them over the last 10 years. 

Ahead of the celebration planned for Saturday, April 27, an independent report, has been released today (Wednesday, April 24) by Scottish Canals and Falkirk Council, measuring the social and economic impacts The Helix; home of The Kelpies, has had on the local and national economy over the last decade. 

The report, prepared by EKOS, shows the iconic attractions, have generated £81m GVA (Gross Value Added) and created 110 new full time equivalent jobs contributing £47m in wages. 

The construction phase is estimated to have created 100 one-off construction jobs in Falkirk, generating £2.7million in wages and contributing £6.1 million in GVA to the local economy. 

The study also shows The Kelpies have helped to grow the local tourism economy by 73 per cent with around 300,000 people participating in cultural/community events at Helix Park since its opening. 

Since their launch, The Kelpies have earned global recognition helping attract a wide range of visitors over the years from domestic to international holidaymakers, it is estimated that around 32 per cent of total visitors to The Kelpies are from outside the Falkirk area. 

Commenting on the report, Scottish Canals’ Chief Executive Officer John Paterson said: “We know the value public art can bring to local people and communities, art on this scale, however, requires real bravery to take forward, invest in and to deliver. Today’s report cements what Scottish Canals and all involved in the creation of The Kelpies knew from the outset, these truly special equine sculptures, linked so closely to Scotland and the canals’ industrial heritage, transcend borders and bring real economic value and vibrancy to the world. 

“The Kelpies and their Helix park setting have proven to have been a tremendous investment for Falkirk and Scotland, and already in their first ten years, have paid back wide ranging benefits many times over. They have been a tremendous investment and have established their rightful place, as one of the most notable icons of Scotland. They are true giants in more ways than one. 

“I would encourage everyone, whether you have been before or have never considered a trip to Scotland and Falkirk, to come and visit these magnificent icons and grab that #KelpieSelfie.” 

Falkirk Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: “The Kelpies stand tall as icons of Scotland, embodying the spirit of innovation and heritage. 

“As we mark this milestone, we reflect on the profound impact these magnificent structures have had on Falkirk and beyond. With a return on investment of almost 8:1, the Kelpies have not only captured the world's attention but have also fuelled local growth, with significant economic benefits to the local area. The Kelpies are also an important part of Falkirk’s identity and regeneration story – helping create attractive places and quality of environment.

“We look forward to celebrating the ten year anniversary of these iconic sculptures at the weekend when the Kelpies 10 event will mark their legacy and the bright future they continue to inspire."

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the incredible Kelpies, there will be a spectacular one-off event taking place at the Kelpies in Helix Park, Falkirk. The daytime free event will run between 10.30am-3pm and will feature lots of exciting activities such as a fun-filled family ceilidh and a live pipe band display. Later that evening there will be a one-of-a-kind concert at The Kelpies featuring performances by singer Callum Beattie and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. For more information and tickets go to: Kelpies 10 | Helix (thehelix.co.uk) 

The full EKOS social and economic report can be found here.