Destination management organisation, Visit County Durham, yesterday announced support for visitor economy businesses
Visit County Durham works on behalf of businesses and public agencies to support the growth and development of the county’s visitor economy, which is worth £914m and supports 11,998 jobs.
Operating as a Partnership organisation, over 360 businesses from the accommodation, attraction, activity, food and drink, retail, entertainment, events and tourism services industries receive a package of business support and promotion for an annual partnership fee. However, Visit County Durham is set to waive these fees for 2020/21 to show solidarity and support for their Partners.
Ivor Stolliday, chairman of Visit County Durham, said: “In these unprecedented times it is vital that we support our visitor economy businesses. By waiving Partnership fees for 2020/21 we hope to ease some of the financial pressure our businesses are currently facing. And once we have navigated the challenging situation the industry is facing, we will work closely with our Partners to assist in their recovery.”
Cllr Joy Allen, Cabinet member for transformation, culture and tourism at Durham County Council, said: “During this uncertain climate we all recognise the importance of supporting businesses who will be affected by the outbreak of Coronavirus. Tourism is a vital part of Durham’s economy and, by waiving Partnership fees, our businesses can be reassured they will still receive the support from Visit County Durham without any added financial pressure in this difficult time.”
The county’s visitor economy has proven its resilience in the past, and with this support in place, Visit County Durham and its Partners will be best placed to work together to ensure a timely recovery for the industry.
Cover Photo by Gordon Hatton
