Tourism in Norwich is picking up, but more support is needed
Norwich BID are calling for extra funding for businesses effected by the four-week lockdown delay
Businesses in Norwich are calling for more support for those affected by the four-week delay to the so called 'Freedom Day'.
Last week's announcement that__ the easing of measures would be delayed by at least another four weeks came as a disappointment to many, particularly those businesses who have struggled the most throughout the pandemic.
Many live events venues haven’t been able to open in over a year, which has had a negative effect on both the night time economy and tourism.
Stefan Gurney is executive director of Norwich BID and says it’s a struggling time for venues like nightclubs and theatres: “The fact there’s no additional support over these 4 weeks from central Government has been viewed very negatively.”
“We’re challenging it both nationally and locally to see what additional support may be available to those that are struggling.”
Despite another set back, Stefan says he’s still hopeful things will pick up quickly.
“We’ve spent a year off being cooped up in small spaces and working from home. I think everyone will enjoy getting back out and being social.”
It’s predicted that it’ll be 2025 by the time tourism hits 2019 figures again. But for Norwich, things seem to be speeding up.
“It’s been about 85% of where it was last year.”
Although there’s less international tourists coming in, there’s been an increase in staycations and visitors from other parts of the UK.
“We’re better situated than a lot of cities- because we’ve got such a walkable and open air city with lots of venues that can cater for tourism, we’re feeling a lot better.”
This Summer, Visit Norwich, the official Destination Marketing Organisation element of Norwich BID, is launching ‘Head out Not Home’.
It’ll take place every Sunday afternoon from 25th July to 5th September and include local talent and performers from across the country.
Dippy the dinosaur will also be making a visit to Norwich Cathedral from July 13th. The 26-metre national treasure will be a temporary resident in the Cathedral Nave. It’s the final venue for the Dippy National Tour which launched in 2018.