Chichester district to benefit from major long-term investment in developing and promoting tourism

“Tourism is a vital sector within the district — it accounts for £470 million within the local economy and 14 per cent of all jobs – and will play a large role in helping to get our local economy back up and running following the coronavirus pandemic,” said Cllr Roy Briscoe, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Culture at the district council.

Chairman of Visit Chichester Francis Hobbs welcomed the council’s decision to treble its annual funding to £150,000 as part of a five-year plan to ensure that the communities of Chichester, Petworth, Midhurst, Selsey and the neighbouring villages are able to benefit in full from the tourism pound.

The Board of Visit Chichester — which comprises representatives across the district from quality venues, retail outlets, the arts, the festival theatre, and the cathedral — is pioneering new approaches to attracting visitors to the region. The council’s financial injection will prove invaluable in taking the next, critical steps forward.

Mr Hobbs said: “Our restaurants, arts centres, theatres, museums, gardens and shops are superb — and given the wonderful architecture, heritage and geography of the district from the downs to the dunes, there is no better place for visitors to come.

“Following lockdown, we know just how important visitors will be to securing jobs as well as the assets that make this district such a special place in which to live and work.

“We are hugely appreciative of the confidence shown in us by the district council. Everyone who lives here will benefit directly or indirectly from this decision.”

Visit Chichester is preparing to unveil its new brand, website and vision for the future along wit detailed plans for supporting the tourism economy and is committed to working with partners and businesses across the region.

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