В Герфордшире утвердили план развития туризма на 1 млрд фунтов к 2035 году

A roadmap aims to make Herefordshire's visitor economy worth £1bn by 2035. Visit Herefordshire revealed plans to boost the county's tourism economy, following five years of growth that has turned the area into one of England's fastest-growing rural destinations. The launch comes before the Business Improvement District (BID) Ballot, where businesses can vote on the future of Visit Herefordshire. A 'yes' vote means continuing investment in marketing, business support, tourism development, and leadership until 2032. A 'no' vote would end Visit Herefordshire's work. Diane Mansell, chief executive of Visit Herefordshire, said: "Five years ago, businesses took a leap of faith and chose to invest collectively in the future of Herefordshire's visitor economy. "The results speak for themselves. "Together, we have transformed Herefordshire into a nationally recognised destination, secured record economic growth and created a strong, independent voice for the visitor economy." Launched in 2022, Visit Herefordshire has increased the county's visitor economy from £470m to a record £830m, supporting nearly 8,000 jobs and contributing 24.6 per cent to Herefordshire's economy. The growth of more than £360m in four years has exceeded the previous 15 years' combined growth. During its first term, Visit Herefordshire reinvested £1.74m of levy funding, secured an additional £329,000 of external investment, and reached audiences across 208 countries and territories. The county also hosted Universal Studios' "Hamnet," bringing more than 300 cast and crew to Herefordshire and generating £841,000 of local expenditure. Looking ahead, the new business plan aims to continue attracting visitors, supporting businesses, and securing additional investment for the county. Read more Retreat an hour from Herefordshire named UK's best unusual stay Long-closed pub reopens with new faces behind the bar All racing cancelled at kart track after water main bursts More than £2.7m will be invested in projects and services to grow visitor spending, increase overnight stays, and create lasting economic benefits. The plan has been shaped by businesses, highlighting marketing, support, partnership working, digital innovation, and investment in market towns and rural communities as key priorities. Ballot papers will be sent to eligible businesses on September 15, with voting open from September 17 and closing on October 15.