Westlife gig in Cork: 'It’s a win-win for hotels, restaurants, retail and general business'

WESTLIFE’S concert at Páirc Uí Chaoimh next summer has been described as a “win-win” for the economy in Cork.

The pop foursome announced this morning that they will play the Cork stadium on August 28, 2020.

The show, which is to be their only stadium outing in Ireland next year, is expected to attract tens of thousands of people to Leeside.

“It was very clear to see the economic benefit that Rod Stewart brought to the region last year, and particularly Ed Sheeran the year before, so we’re thrilled at the announcement,” said Lawrence Owens, chief executive of the Cork Business Association.

Ed Sheeran’s three concerts in Cork were worth an estimated €60m to the local economy.

“Anything that can draw additional footfall to the city is fantastic because the spin-off will reach all sectors — everybody wins,” added Mr Owens.

“It’s a win-win for hotels, restaurants, retail and general business.”

Conor Healy, chief executive of the Cork Chamber, added: “It’s really positive news for the region.

“The hope was with the new development at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, that we would see significant concerts and Westlife next summer will attract significant numbers.”

Mr Healy added that he is hopeful of seeing the Irish band add a second date next August.

Speaking at Páirc Uí Chaoimh today, Westlife’s Cian Egan refused to rule out more dates for Cork.

“It’s such a hard one to call but as far as we’re concerned, we’ll do as many gigs as the people of Ireland want us to do here in Cork,” he said.

“This is our only summer stadium show (in Ireland) next year.

“We’re not sure at the moment, we’re putting the Friday night for sale and we’ll see after that,” he added.

“Ideally, it would be more than one but we’ll see what happens.”

Nicky Byrne revealed that he was inspired to play Páirc Uí Chaoimh after seeing Ed Sheeran and Rod Stewart rock the venue, as well the atmosphere during Liam Miller’s memorial match.

“We’ve played the Marquee here on a couple of occasions and it’s always been a brilliant show.

“So to put on a bespoke show here in Cork, the only show in Ireland next year, is going to be pretty special.”

People from more than 60 different countries flocked to Westlife’s concerts in Croke Park earlier this year.

“We want to see all those flags here in Cork as well so hopefully we can bring people from all over Ireland and the world here to Cork,” said Mark.

The band’s support act is to be announced this Wednesday and tickets from €59.50 will go on sale on Friday at 9am.