By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
“There’s more to Nottinghamshire than Robin Hood”, Nottinghamshire County Council’s economic development lead has said, as it steps up its bid to attract tourists.
A new deal between the council and Visit Nottinghamshire will seek to bring in more visitors with history, culture and sport – and keep them here for longer.
The 18-month arrangement will see the county’s official tourism marketing organisation promoting Nottinghamshire’s tourism, hospitality and events.
Tourism is worth more than £2bn to the local economy, supporting more than 20,000 local jobs.
Councillor Keith Girling (Con), the cabinet member for economic development and asset management, welcomed the co-ordinated approach to tourism.
“Nottingham shouldn’t be competing with the rest of the county – we should be inviting people to explore it all,” he said.
“Our job is to bring people in and keep them here for a week.
“Overnight trips bring significantly more into the economy – people might spend £30 if they’re here for the day, but £330 if they spend a night or two.
“We have to show that Nottinghamshire is more than just Robin Hood. There’s rich history here, like Newark Castle where King John died and Southwell where the last battle of the Civil War was fought.
“Then there’s our connections with great writers like Lord Byron and D.H. Lawrence.
“There’s easily enough for a daytrip. We should be asking visitors ‘Why not stay for the week and see even more?'”
Cllr Girling, a keen Notts County FC supporter, says sport should continue to play a key role in bringing people to the area.
“Even as a County fan, I was happy to see Forest get promoted because having a Premiership side is an amazing economic boost,” he said.
“Holme Pierrepont country park is utilised, but not as much as it could be.”
Megan Powell Vreeswijk, Chief Executive of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “We’re very proud to be entering into this partnership with the county council. We’ve been working closely with them, and this is the next strategic step in our relationship.
“This new partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to growing our visitor economy.
“We’re looking forward to working with the county council to attract more visitors into the region, increasing the economic impact of tourism and showcasing the very best that Nottinghamshire has to offer.”
