Tourism is vital to Devon’s economy but the industry is under threat from all sides. The industry itself is fragmented; many resorts are in need of regeneration; jobs are low-paid, often seasonal and insecure, competition from abroad and other parts of Britain, is increasing, and the perception is that it now rains more and the sun shines less!

External factors also impact on the tourism sector, for example the petrol shortages in 2000, foot and mouth disease and the tragic events of September 11th in 2001, world political and sporting events, exchange rates etc. These all demonstrate the influence external factors can have on tourism and its vulnerability.

The objective for tourism is to maximise the economic benefits whilst balancing the need to adopt a sustainable approach, to ensure that the natural, historic and cultural environment is enhanced and protected.  The County Council recognises that to realise the full potential of tourism it must be properly developed and managed in a sustainable way in order to avoid issues such as traffic congestion, overcrowding, disruption to local communities and damage to sensitive areas.

Also on devon.gov.uk

Other Web Sites