The Mayor has requested an increase tourism and inward investment marketing activity in support of the Torbay Economic Strategy and its objective to ‘bring about the physical and economic regeneration of Torbay and deliver the benefits to the local community.

The Tourism Strategy seeks to develop the tourism sector in Torbay by steadying visitor numbers, attracting higher spending visitors and repositioning the English Riviera as a leading and inspirational UK destination. The Inward Investment Strategy seeks to increase full-time year-round employment in Torbay by capitalising on existing sector strengths and exploiting the offer of Torbay as a business destination.

The Council received a report on a proposal to invest £250,000 from reserves over two years to increase tourism inward investment and marking activity to help improve visitor numbers and spending in line with the Council’s objectives.

It was proposed by Councillor Excell and seconded by the Vice-Chairman, Councillor Stringer:

(i)         that £250,000 be released from reserves over two years to support the key areas of tourism, maritime event and inward investment marketing; and

(ii)        that the Chief Executive of the Torbay Development Agency be instructed to identify appropriate delivery options for the marketing spend.

On being put to the vote, the motion was declared carried.