MP praises billion pound tourism industry
South Lakes MP Tim Farron has praised the tourism sector for their role in supporting the local economy. Total tourism revenue in South Lakeland is estimated to be worth over £1bn to our area, according to figures from Cumbria Tourism.
In Cumbria the tourism sector supports 32,805 Full Time Equivalent jobs. Within the Lake District national park it accounts for 15,424 jobs and in South Lakeland specifically 14,826 jobs.
South Lakeland, 2013 saw an increase of 4.9% in tourist numbers compared to 2012 and an 8.1% increase in tourism revenue - an extra £75m. This brings total tourism revenue in South Lakeland to just over £1bn. Employment supported by tourism grew by 5.6%. Day visitor numbers grew by 4.7% and the amount of money they spent increased by 8.1% in 2013. Staying visitor numbers grew by 6.5%, the number of nights stayed increased by 3.1%, and revenue from overnight stays increased by 8.2%.
In the Lake District national park, visitor days increased by 4.1% and visitor numbers by 4.5% in 2013. Altogether visitor spending across the National Park increased by almost 7%. There were notable increases in visitor spending in the accommodation, food and drink and recreation sectors. This resulted in an increase in both direct and indirect employment within the tourism industry, equivalent to 530 full time jobs in the Lake District National Park, a 3.6% increase.
South Lakeland accounts for the greatest share of Cumbria's tourism revenue at 45%, followed by Allerdale at 17% and Carlisle with 16%.
Tim has repeatedly called for a VAT cut for the tourism sector. Tim recognises the critical role that tourism plays for the local economy in the Lake District.
Tim said: "Our tourism sector is worth over a billion pounds and it does not get the credit it deserves. I want to pay tribute to all the entrepreneurs, business owners, hoteliers and staff who do such amazing work. They make sure our area is known around the world not only for our breath-taking scenery, but also our warm welcome and hospitality."