Issue - meetings

The Committee considered a report which provided an update on the work developing a Tourism Strategy and understanding the opportunity for alignment with wider opportunities to unlock the growth potential of the area.

The Business Growth Manager explained there were five priority areas of the draft Tourism Strategy having worked in partnership with local stakeholders in the sector through workshops and direct consultations.  These were:

1.     Create a sense of place and grow Bolsover’s economy;

2.     Build business resilience through collaboration and skill;

3.     Develop the District as a family friendly destination;

4.     Create a stronger events offer;

5.     Develop a strong marketing proposition for the District.

The Council had created a new role to replace the previous Tourism Officer role with a Tourism and Place Manager.  The new role had a wider area of responsibility to develop the tourism sector alongside a wider ‘Place’ agenda.

The Business Growth Manager explained ‘Place’ was increasingly important to the strategy as providing an attractive area would enable the District to thrive as a desirable tourist destination.  To ensure it was, Thinkingplace had been contracted to develop a new positive place narrative and reposition the area through this narrative and a place leadership programme.  The narrative would be supported through a brand, visuals, and storyboard and would be promoted through a new website and social media platforms.

An example of this narrative was ‘quick wins’ for Bolsover Town by looking at a holistic place led approach.  The identified quick wins aligned to the role that tourism, place and arts/culture all had in unlocking the growth potential of the town.

Consultations had taken place with local stakeholders and the Council had a working group of officers leading efforts across a range of Council’s services. 

In answer to a question the Business Growth Manager explained it was hoped a draft strategy would be ready later in 2024.

After a Member’s question on the locations of the work being undertaken, the Business Growth Manager explained Bolsover Town was the main leisure/tourism area, though the whole District, including areas like Creswell Crags and Clowne Greenway, contributed to the strategy.

The Chair asked how the strategy and investment was being funded.  The Business Growth Manager answered the strategy would be completed by the Council and funding for specific projects would be applied for where available. 

The Portfolio Holder for Growth added that the Council had a voice on the Local Visitor Economic Partnership, with local visitor attractions promoted.

Moved by Councillor Jeanne Raspin and seconded by Councillor Will Fletcher

RESOLVED that the report be noted.