Businesses from across Eden and Cumbria are invited to attend a high profile tourism event this month.
The annual Eden Tourism Summit, at Center Parcs is taking place in person for the first time since before the pandemic and some of the tourism industry’s most topical issues will be discussed.
Held on October 19, speakers include Tim Narey, project director at Eden Project North, Charlie Rogers, consultant at Small World Consulting, Helen Tate, tourism research analyst at Cumbria Tourism and Glen Franklin, village director, Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest.
They will bring a national and regional perspective of the latest ideas, thoughts and opinions within the UK’s visitor economy.
A panel discussion will allow delegates to put questions to the speakers and delegates will have the chance to network over a buffet lunch and Center Parcs is also offering the chance for an exclusive walking tour of the village.
It has been organised by Eden District Council as part of its Inspiring Eden work programme.
“Recognising the important role of the visitor economy within Eden I am delighted to be speaking at this year’s Eden Tourism Summit,” said Virginia Taylor, council leader. “Eden District Council’s Inspiring Eden economic development programme is providing funding for a wide range of projects that will benefit tourism in the area – from improved transport connectivity to providing changing spaces for visitors with limited mobility. Our programme aims to help and support businesses grow and adapt, enabling them to make a valuable contribution to the area’s dynamic economy.”
The event, chaired by Jim Walker – chair of the Eden Tourism Network and president of Cumbria Tourism, marks 10 years since the first summit at Lowther Castle. It will also be the last tourism summit staged by Eden District Council before the district becomes part of the new Westmorland and Furness Council from 1st April 2023.
Over the last 10 years, tourism summits staged by Eden District Council have discussed topical issues affecting the area’s visitor economy. As the sector emerges from COVID-19 it is felt sustainability and innovation will be key drivers for economic growth and security.
Mr Walker said: “Eden Tourism Summit has been a highlight over many years for tourism businesses in the district – an essential look back at what the main season has delivered and a vital opportunity for all involved to plan for the year ahead.
“For the first time since the pandemic the 2022 version will be in person and coupled with the extraordinary challenges we now face in the visitor economy it will be even more relevant than ever before.
“In response Eden Tourism have assembled a stellar line up of speakers to provide an informative, inspiring and insightful mini conference with regional and national speakers.
“There is no doubt the time ahead for tourism businesses in Eden is going to be very challenging. I strongly recommend that businesses join us to get the best intelligence and the most useful experiences from the case studies from the summit to best prepare for whatever lies ahead.”
The summit is taking place in collaboration with Eden Tourism Network. The network comprises of more than 100 representatives from tourism businesses in Eden and provides an opportunity to share information and discuss the latest tourism developments and issues. The group meets quarterly at various locations around the district.
Places at the summit for non-network members are available at £10 including VAT. To book, email tourism@eden.gov.uk
