Cumbria - Open for business as usual

Thursday 03 December 2009

FOLLOWING the devastating floods in parts in Cumbria I am sure that you will share my concerns and sympathy for the residents and businesses affected - a message from Nick Brooks-Sykes, Director of Tourism, NWDA

The NWDA has announced a £1million Flood Recovery Grants package to help small businesses recover from the floods and I encourage tourism businesses to find out about the help that is available to them by contacting Business Link Northwest on 0845 00 66 888.

Other businesses have been indirectly affected as visitors cancel bookings and visits due to the images and reports in the media. Indeed many of those businesses suffering are located across the entire county in places unaffected directly by the floods.

The message has to be loud and clear that Cumbria is open for business. Events are taking place, accommodation is available and attractions are open across the county.

The NWDA is pleased to announce we are contributing significantly towards a £500,000 marketing campaign to spread this message. We are also working closely with Cumbria Tourism to develop a plan for the long-term recovery of the tourism economy. Read NWDA's Press Release for further information.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my support and admiration for those businesses which are continuing to trade in difficult circumstances and those which are coming to terms with the consequences of the flooding.

The NWDA has always recognised the importance of tourism to Cumbria’s economy and will continue to work hard in partnership with Cumbria Tourism to support tourism in Cumbria and secure a strong sustainable future.