MP Nigel Huddleston has visited a nearby country manor to learn more about the value of the tourism industry during a nationwide campaign.
The MP for Droitwich and Evesham visited Spetchley Park in support of Visit Britain’s English Tourism Week (March 15 to 23) which highlights the value of the tourism industry and the important role it plays in local and national economies.
Mr Huddleston who recently hosted a reception with Visit England in Parliament, stressed the importance of continued support for tourism and heritage sites, particularly in rural areas.
Speaking about today’s visit to Spetchley Park and local tourism in Worcestershire, Nigel Huddleston MP said: “I had a lovely visit to the ever-beautiful Spetchley Park Estate earlier today, which has been home to the Berkeley family for over 400 years. The house and gardens provide beautiful scenery and share fascinating history.
“My constituency of Droitwich and Evesham boasts a range of beautiful tourism and heritage sites that draw visitors from across the UK and beyond; from the historic Evesham Abbey, through stunning countryside and up towards Hartlebury Castle.”
The MP also had many pleasant things to say about the county’s tourism sector. He highlighted the county’s £962 million tourism revenue supported by 17.3 million annual visitors.
He added that the local tourism sector is thriving with 2,230 businesses across Worcestershire supporting 14,411 full-time equivalent jobs which equates to 6.7 per cent of total employment in the region.
Mr Huddleston said: “However, alongside this success, we must recognise the challenges ahead.
“The Government’s decision to remove Agricultural and Business Property Relief puts many of our beloved parks, gardens, historic houses, and castles at risk.
“This move could have a devastating impact on rural economies and the future of these historic sites, which rely on fair taxation to remain open to the public.
“I will continue to stand up for our tourism and heritage industries to ensure they receive the support they deserve.
With Worcestershire’s tourism sector playing such a vital role in driving economic growth, Nigel urges local businesses and residents to celebrate and champion the industry.
