Teamwork to help Staffordshire tourism
Tourism is worth a massive £104 million to the south Staffordshire economy with more than 2.2 million people visiting the area, it has been revealed.
Council bosses are now pledging to work closer with the tourist industry to help bolster the local economy and create more jobs.
It is estimated that more than 2,100 district jobs are supported by tourism with £9m spent each month,
South Staffordshire Council will for the first time be delivering the strategy with the South Staffordshire Tourism Association ensuring that the tourism sector and its businesses are fully supported.
Councillor Bob McCardle, cabinet member for strategic services, said: "It's essential that we promote south Staffordshire as a great place to visit, encourage investment to sustain local businesses and increase employment in the tourism sector.
"This new strategy symbolises both the council and South Staffordshire Tourism Association's commitment and support to tourism locally. It also sets out a clear vision for the future of our tourist industry so we can create a thriving and sustainable future for people who live, work in and visit south Staffordshire."
Tourism association chairman Terrie Beardsmore said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with the council to deliver this new strategy.
"The association is a forum of local tourism-related businesses, all with the same goal – to raise the profile of south Staffordshire and encourage more visitors to the district. Tourism is one of our greatest assets and so it's vital we support this sector."
District attractions include royal connections with Charles II at Boscobel House and Moseley Old Hall, sandstone excavations dating back to the 16th century at Kinver and stately homes including Himley Hall.
