28/02/2011 - Permalink

Strategy to shape future of tourism in Ludlow and Shropshire Hills

Related topics: Leisure, culture and heritage

Work has started on a new plan, which it is hoped will lead to European recognition of the Shropshire Hills and Ludlow as a destination for sustainable tourism.

Supported by Shropshire Council, the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership is working with the market towns and tourism interests in the area to establish a strategy and action plan for tourism over the next five years.

The strategy will look at all aspects of tourism, considering the needs and opportunities of enterprises, visitors, the environment and local communities. It will provide guidance for the newly formed Shropshire Hills and Ludlow Destination Development Partnership.

Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy and waste, said:

“This strategy will seek to make the most of the exceptional rural landscapes and historical heritage of the area, while ensuring that they are kept special for future generations to enjoy.”

At the end of the year an application will be made for the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas – an award already held by the Brecon Beacons and over eighty special landscapes across the UK and continental Europe.

Tourism enterprises in the area are being invited to provide their views by completing a questionnaire, which can be found at www.surveymk.com/s/shropshirehillsandludlow

Open meetings for anyone interested are being held on:

  • 28 February: Rushbury Village Hall at 2pm;
  • 3 March: Clun Memorial Hall at 2pm; Minsterley Parish Hall at 7pm;
  • 10 March: Cleobury Mortimer Market Hall at 10.30 am; Ludlow Assembly

Rooms at 7pm.

This project is part financed by the Natural Assets programme of Advantage West Midlands, administered by Natural England.

For further information contact Phil Holden, Shropshire Hills AONB Partnership on 01588 674088, or Tim King at Shropshire Council on 01743 252257.