'Time to back British Holidays before it's too late' warn campaigners
Tourism bosses from Devon are today at a national trade event as a petition calls for more support to protect staycations
There are fears almost three million fewer tourists will head to the South West this year - as a petition calls for everyone to better support British holidays.
Daniel Attwood is from the Back British Holidays campaign - which is predicting a £756 million fall in the local economy as he warns since Covid more people are choosing to go abroad.
He said: "There's been a significant decline, it hasn't slowed down.
"It's got worse and worse year on year since 2022 and we're now at a point where local business, local campsites, local holiday parks are finding bookings are down and they are struggling - and the point of this campaign is to raise the issue now before it comes to the point of local companies actually going out of business.
"We know the cost of living crisis is still with us and we're also well aware that the cost of running business has increased and therefore the costs of things like a night at a campsite have had to go up - but it's still the most affordable way to holiday."
The campaign forecasts that the UK domestic holiday sector is predicted to fall by 32% in overall trips, from 42.3 million in 2022 to just 28.8 million by 2025. This will result in a cumulative loss of £23.2 billion in spending, which will harm businesses, put jobs at risk and potentially cause UK holidays to fall into a spiral of irreparable decline.
Key industries that underpin British holiday culture, such as caravanning, camping and glamping, are projected to lose over £1.2 billion, representing a 39% decline in spending. Even coastal destinations will see over £700 million in lost revenue, alongside cities and large towns, which would see a significant loss of £2.7 billion – an 18% decline.
It comes as representatives from Plymouth are today at the British Tourism and Travel Show at Birmingham's NEC to help promote the county.
Amanda Lumley, Chief Executive of Destination Plymouth, said: "Plymouth is an outstanding destination for group travel and travel trade, offering a rich blend of history, culture, stunning coastal scenery and innovation. With exciting new experiences such as bespoke curator tours at The Box, scenic harbour cruises, and the reopening of the iconic Tinside Lido – a very special Grade II listed space now ready to welcome big corporate events as well - there has never been a better time for groups to visit Britain’s Ocean City.
“As we look ahead to an exciting 2025, including the 200th anniversary of the Royal William Yard, we are committed to providing exceptional hospitality, seamless travel experiences, and a warm welcome to all visitors and we are very much looking forward to our spell at British Tourism & Travel Show (Birmingham), on 19-20 March!"
The Back British Holidays petition can be found here
For more about the campaign click here
Rayo Premium