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Tourism Strategy Consultation - Make sure you have your say! - [17-11-2006]

Luton and Bedfordshire are not natural ‘tourism’ destinations and yet, right now, 5% of the workforce owes its living to the visitor economy and there is opportunity for significant growth. Research carried out as part of the strategy development indicates that just over 5000 new jobs in tourism could be created by 2021. As well as job creation, investment in the development of the visitor economy can support amongst others, better facilities in rural areas, provide a wider range of events for local residents, encourage improvements in retail and transport, engender greater civic pride and a bring about a reduction in out commuting.

The draft Tourism Growth Strategy has been developed to ensure that we seize opportunities such as the London 2012 Olympics and provides a clear analysis of what needs to be done to achieve long term growth in the tourism industry.

The draft Strategy looks forward 15 years and sets out a vision for the future as follows,

‘Luton and Bedfordshire will be recognised as places that have changed for the better. They will be known for their professionalism in hosting business visitors and in exploiting their location. Visitors will enjoy the variety of town and country, world-class attractions and events and their increased spending will support good quality local employment.’

The opportunity is enormous, but so is the challenge.

A copy of the draft strategy can be downloaded from www.bedfordshire.gov.uk along with the Appendix, summary and consultation questions. Comments are required by Wednesday 6th December to beds@lynchassocaites.co.uk or by post to Mary Lynch Associates, Suite 26, Start Woolwich, 9-11 Gunnery terrace, Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SW.

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