Cabinet approves the 2022 to 2027 Tourism Plan for the borough

Bridgend County Borough Council welcomes the decision by its Cabinet to approve the Destination Management Plan (DMP), 2022 to 2027, outlining how tourism within the county borough will be managed to fulfil its potential during this time frame.

Bridgend’s tourism industry injects invaluable revenue into the local economy, consequently contributing to local prosperity and quality of life.

According to data from the Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Model, in 2019 (the last full year prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic) the economic benefit of tourism to Bridgend County Borough was estimated at £363 million. 

In addition, the industry was responsible for creating over 4,000 jobs, as well as supporting services and infrastructure such as transport links, a variety of shops and services, sports and cultural facilities – all of which has benefitted the local community.   

Since the last DMP, significant change has taken place at global, national and local levels - namely the Covid-19 pandemic, Britain’s exit from the European Union, as well as a rise in the cost of living. All of these have impacted the tourism and hospitality industries.

The new DMP addresses issues with a recovery plan - this includes additional funding streams, public amenity projects, infrastructure upgrades and support for the accommodation sector. 

The success of the plan will rely heavily on the active working partnership between the council and key stakeholders, such as town and community councils, local businesses, as well as the community. The council will also collaborate with Visit Wales, regional entities such as Cardiff Capital Region and the Valleys Regional Park, as well as neighbouring authorities.

As a result of engagement with stakeholders and research, the DMP, 2022-2027, evolves the governance framework to ensure it is fit for purpose in the context of National, Regional and Local governance arrangements.

We are extremely enthused by the new Destination Development Plan. Following a difficult period, we are looking forward to adopting the plan to ensure that Bridgend’s tourism industry can bounce back, albeit in a managed and sustainable way.

The vision for the plan is supported by goals aligned with those of Visit Wales, which includes creating economic growth, promoting environmental sustainability, as well as providing social and cultural enrichment. We welcome the investment into Bridgend’s tourism industry and are excited to experience all that it has to offer.

Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration