Holyhead town centre saw a 37% drop in foot traffic after ferry services were suspended due to storm damage.
Holyhead’s businesses suffered greatly. This happened during the busy holiday season. Now, a data report shows the impact. The Welsh Government created this report, and Menter Môn delivered it. This is part of Trefi Smart Cymru.
This program helps towns use data to revitalize their high streets. Data shows how things affect trade. For example, it shows how port closures affect foot traffic. Trefi Smart Cymru checked BT data, which measured high street foot traffic.
From December 6, 2024, to January 15, 2025, foot traffic fell significantly. Only 52,215 people visited the area compared to 83,445 the previous year. This represents a drop in foot traffic of 37.42%.
The Retail Park also experienced fewer visitors, but the decline was more pronounced on the high street. Newry Beach, known for its restaurants, saw a substantial decrease in foot traffic, falling by 60.17%.
Consequently, business owners reported significant financial losses due to the port closure.
Howard Browes, a business owner and chair of Cybi Business Forum, stated that the closure hurt many businesses. He specifically mentioned hotels, shops, and restaurants, which all experienced a decline in business.
Keith Roberts, working for Anglesey Council, noted that truck drivers stopped visiting Holyhead. They usually eat and rest there, causing local businesses to lose revenue as a result.
Chanthi’s Thai Restaurant experienced a 50% reduction in revenue. Orient B&B refunded 41 room bookings, losing over £2,000. The Boathouse Hotel faced 147 cancellations, resulting in losses of approximately £19,000 to £20,000.
Trefi Smart Cymru concluded that the closure severely impacted Holyhead’s economy with high street shops especially affected. Data helps quantify this impact, enabling businesses to adapt and support recovery.
They emphasized the need for more data, including information on visitor time and income. This would reveal how people are changing their behavior in response to the situation.
They also suggested analyzing data from before the closure to provide a comparative baseline. Utilizing data offers valuable assistance to businesses. Solid evidence is essential for informed decision-making, ultimately supporting necessary actions.