West Devon and South Hams businesses urged to shape region’s tourism future

Tourism businesses across South Hams and West Devon are being invited to help shape the future of the sector as part of a new study into the local visitor economy.

South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council are working with Business Information Point (BIP) to carry out an in-depth review of how visitors support jobs and businesses across both districts.

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The councils and BIP want to hear directly from tourism operators about the challenges they face, the barriers holding the sector back and what future investment would help their businesses.

A spokesperson for the councils said: “This study will give us a clearer understanding of what is happening across the visitor economy and where support is most needed.”

Three ways to ‘have your say’ have been set out by the councils.

Firstly, business owners are being invited to attend a Tourism Business Symposium. 

A West Devon event will take place next Monday (23 February) from 10am to 2.30pm at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock. 

The South Hams event will be held a few weeks later on Monday 2 March from 10am to 2.30pm at Follaton House in Totnes.

Participants will take part in breakout sessions focused on recruitment and seasonality, wider tourism challenges in Devon, and future support for the industry. 

Both events are free to attend, with refreshments, a light lunch and a short survey provided to attendees. 

Tourism businesses can also complete an online survey or request a one-to-one consultation by phone, video call or in person.

A representative from Business Information Point said: “We want to hear honest feedback from businesses of all sizes so future funding and support reflects real experiences on the ground.”

The work builds on existing support funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which has included grants for small businesses and promotion of the area. 

West Devon Borough Council and South Hams District Council say the new study will help guide future decisions and investment.

Tourism plays a key role in the economy of South Hams and West Devon, supporting a wide range of businesses including hotels, holiday lets, cafés and visitor attractions.

More information about the consultation, including how to book onto the symposium events, is available through Business Information Point.