Tourism sector needs stronger 'joined-up' support- Norfolk group
Figures from county hall suggest that 50 thousand jobs depend on people visiting the county and are enhanced by Bank Holiday weekends
A man representing a local tourist hotspots says the sector needs stronger joined-up support to help it grow further.
Latest estimates suggests that Norfolk's 'visitor economy' is worth £3 billion and supports 20% of local jobs, (which equates to about 50 thousand).
"Bank holidays like these really can be the difference"
Graham Hukins runs the North Norfolk Railway:
"The tax and National Insurance changes earlier this year really have dented the profitability of a lot of tourist businesses and attractions.
"Bank holidays like these really can be the difference between some firms making a profit and deficit, in the whole of the year.
He says the way this industry is viewed and assessed is unfair
"If somebody comes on holiday to Norfolk and has a meal out here that doesn't contribute any more to the English economy than if they had stayed at home and eat that meal in their home-town.
"But actually, if they had not been away from home, they might not of had that meal at all".
What's the Government doing to support to Tourism sector?
In 2024, minister announced a new £100m VisitBritain marketing fund, business rates relief, created a new Visitor Economy Advisory Council, and set aside money for local tourism projects, through the Levelling Up Fund.