NCTA England’s Coast October Update

"It appears from our latest research that the mixed weather over the summer has been mirrored by equally mixed business performance across the coast. Some areas have reported an increase in footfall but a drop in revenue and secondary spend while others have seen the reverse with revenue the same or higher than last year but a decline in footfall.

While there’s been an overall increase in international visitors particularly from Germany, the Netherlands, USA and Canada, this boost has been offset by the impact of rising costs causing a significant dent in profits. There’s been widespread reduction in opening times with many businesses closing on certain weekdays resulting in a poorer visitor experience.

Every area of the coast says it has serious concerns over the government’s proposed plans to end zero hours contracts which could be announced in the 30 October budget.

There is still much to be done to restore the coastal visitor economy. While the party conference season might now be in full swing, these issues are the focus for our briefing papers for new coastal MPs and highlight the need to reform the All-Pary Parliamentary Group for Coastal Communities. We are also helping to co-ordinate a round-table visitor economy discussion with coastal MPs, do encourage your local MP to get involved."

Read the update here