North West Norfolk is proud to be one of England's most loved tourism destinations.
Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, supporting hundreds of thousands of businesses, employing more than 2.6 million people and generating more than £106 billion a year for the English economy. The visitor economy in West Norfolk is estimated to be worth around £496 million to the wider local economy and the tourism industry supports around 17% local jobs.
Sadly tourism, leisure, and hospitality sectors remain closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. James has been working hard on to help local businesses to secure the grants, rent holidays, rate relief, loans and insurance payouts that they need to survive this difficult period. Last month James joined with 80 MPs to call for additional support for the tourism sector as it could be hit harder and for longer by the current economic shutdown. That includes additional grants, a more flexible approach to the furlough scheme and other measures.
The Chancellor has responded with additional funding for local authorities to pay discretionary grants to businesses who did not qualify for earlier schemes. He has also extended the furlough scheme and James is working with ministers for an approach which will support these sectors as they are able to re-open.
In addition, VisitEngland is administering a £1.3m emergency fund to support local tourism organisations throughout the coronavirus outbreak. Under the scheme, destinations will be able to receive up to £2,500 per month for two members of non-furloughed staff who provide crucial business support services and up to £5,000 to cover operating costs.
James Wild MP, said -
Tourism is a vital part of West Norfolk's economy with visitors coming to enjoy our wonderful coastline, heritage and countryside.
The government has put in place welcome measures to support tourism and hospitality businesses but the lockdown has hit firms hard when pubs, restuarants, and attractions should be booming.
After listening to businesses across West Norfolk, I supported further measures to protect more jobs and ensure that firms can bounce back once restrictions can be eased. The Chancellor has introduced further welcome steps. I am working with the Tourism Minister and businesses to shape an approach that can safely re-open businesses while protecting local communities.”
For the moment, why not plan your next adventure online by exploring all the wonderful resources on Visit West Norfolk website. Hopefully it won’t be too long until we can return to our favourite restaurants and landmarks. From stunning stately homes and world-famous Sandringham, to gorgeous coastal pubs, glorious beaches and stunning nature reserves, everyone is looking forward to getting back to 'normal' as soon and as safely as possible.
English Tourism Week 2020 takes place from Monday 25th May to Sunday 31st May.
