UK commits to building 130,000 hotel rooms by 2025
Outgoing prime minister Theresa May has promised to add 130,000 new hotel rooms by 2025, as part of a package of measures designed to boost the UK’s tourism industry.
The government has also pledged to deliver a new tourism data hub, and 10,000 new apprenticeships in the sector per year.
There will also be a pilot of up to five new “tourism zones” to drive visitor numbers across the country.
Outgoing prime minister Theresa May has promised to add 130,000 new hotel rooms by 2025, as part of a package of measures designed to boost the UK’s tourism industry.
The government has also pledged to deliver a new tourism data hub, and 10,000 new apprenticeships in the sector per year.
There will also be a pilot of up to five new “tourism zones” to drive visitor numbers across the country.
These will receive government support for growing their local visitor economy, through initiatives such as targeted support for product and promotion development, mentoring support to businesses, and digital skills training.
Last year around 38 million people visited the UK, contributing £23bn to the local economy.
By 2025 experts predict that there will be an additional 9 million visitors to the UK.
May said: “As one of the most visited countries in the world, the UK is a world leader in international tourism and it is crucial that we remain globally competitive to meet growing demands.
“That’s why today I am pleased to announce the UK’s first ever tourism sector deal, ensuring that we continue to innovate, boost connectivity and economic productivity, expand career pathways and break down barriers for visitors with disabilities.
“This deal recognises the important role tourism plays, and will continue to play, in showcasing what our great country has to offer.”
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