Devon and Cornwall tourism firms hope for staycation boom
Tourism businesses in Devon and Cornwall are preparing for the summer season, hoping for a boost in visitors despite rising operational costs. Local operators emphasize that the six-week summer period is critical for their annual financial stability.
Why it matters
The report highlights the economic vulnerability of regional tourism sectors facing inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kirk England South West environment and tourism correspondent BBC A successful summer is "absolutely crucial" said Esther Lochrie, who runs tourism businesses in Cornwall Tourism businesses across Devon and Cornwall have been preparing for the summer holidays, the busiest part of their year, already hopeful of a good season after a sustained spell of warm weather. Some are also mindful of rising costs, and the financial strain on families wrestling with cost of living pressures.
Esther Lochrie runs the cafe, car park, and beach hut hire at Swanpool Beach near Falmouth in Cornwall.
She feels ready for the school holidays and is hopeful of a good summer especially if the "amazing" weather continues.
"We are primed, we are ready to go," she says while accepting "it's a tricky time for businesses", giving rising staff costs as a particular challenge.
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