What's Happening?
A new 10-year tourism strategy is being developed for the Cotswolds and wider Gloucestershire area, aiming to manage visitor numbers and promote sustainable growth. The plan, funded by the Gloucestershire Strategic
Economic Development Fund (SEDF), will cover the period from 2026 to 2036. It seeks to provide a shared framework for tourism investment and decision-making, while also protecting the region's landscapes. The initiative is led by CotswoldsPlus LVEP, with input from stakeholders and businesses through surveys and workshops. The strategy will focus on distributing visitors more evenly across the region and extending the economic impact of tourism throughout the year.
Why It's Important?
Tourism is a significant economic driver for Gloucestershire, generating approximately £1.5 billion annually and supporting thousands of jobs. Without a coordinated strategy, the region faces risks of overcrowding in popular areas and missed opportunities elsewhere. The new plan aims to address these challenges by promoting sustainable tourism practices and ensuring that economic benefits are distributed more evenly. By engaging stakeholders and businesses, the strategy seeks to create a practical and ambitious framework that supports community development and strengthens the visitor economy.
What's Next?
The development of the tourism strategy will involve extensive stakeholder engagement, including surveys, workshops, and online consultations. This input will help shape the final plan, which will guide future funding bids and investment decisions. The project also includes the creation of a regional tourism data and intelligence platform to support evidence-based decision-making. CotswoldsPlus LVEP has appointed Vicky Parr as a part-time tourism project support officer to coordinate project activities and stakeholder engagement.
Beyond the Headlines
The strategy highlights the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental sustainability. By focusing on sustainable practices, the plan aims to protect the unique landscapes of the Cotswolds while enhancing the visitor experience. This approach reflects a broader trend in tourism planning, where regions are increasingly prioritizing environmental conservation alongside economic development.
