The 4th July is usually an important date in the diary for Americans, but this year, it is an important date for Britain too- leisure and tourism businesses are reopening.
Tourism is such an integral part of our Cumbrian economy and contributes to the social fabric of our county. Restaurants, cafes, B&Bs and shops, are all contributors to our tourism sector- and many of these businesses are used by Cumbrian residents.
However, Cumbria’s tourism offer is not just the Lake District- indeed the Lake District is a fantastic asset for the county. But it is destinations such as Cockermouth, Silloth, Workington and Maryport that are the hidden gems- the areas of growth- the places in which we can improve and increase visitor numbers. Indeed the Lake District is a developed market and presents a strong base to attract visitors to the county. However, it is the marketing of seaside resorts, market towns and leisure activities that will encourage individuals and families to leave the Lakes for day trips further afield.
I am a strong supporter of local businesses and I am fortunate to have all four of these destination towns in my constituency. As we emerge from lockdown and as the tourism and leisure industries re-open, I am keen to promote these towns as tourist destinations in their own right.
That is why on Saturday 4th July, I am going to visit tourist attractions, cafes and hotels in these towns the men and women who have worked hard to maintain their businesses during lockdown. I want to raise awareness of these destinations and promote the businesses that contribute to the tourism offer across my constituency.
The likelihood of many people choosing a staycation this year is high. Cumbria has a large visitor offer and I want to see this promoted in other regions of the country. As residents, we can also support these venues, in an attempt to lengthen their summer, ensuring that they are able to reopen next year.
Cumbria should be marketed and treated as a brand. If the tourism sector grows so does awareness of the county. Other sectors such as artisan food and drink and transport can grow on the back of increased visitor numbers.
During the coming months I will be working hard with Cumbria Tourism and Allerdale Borough Council to improve visitor numbers into the Workington constituency, supporting our stand alone destinations. And I am pleased that both the High Street Fund in Maryport and the Towns Deal in Workington have incorporated tourism elements in their bids to make those towns more welcoming to visitors.
There may not be too many Americans visiting Cumbria this year but I hope to see visitors from across Britain enjoying their holidays in the towns across my constituency.
