Agenda item

The Council and Bath Tourism Plus Limited have now commenced work on an update of the Destination Management Plan for BaNES. The update provides an opportunity to broaden the scope of the old plan from tourism to encompass the wider visitor economy. 

A presentation on the emerging findings will be given to the Panel and they will be asked for their thoughts and feedback.

The Group Manager for Economy & Culture introduced this item to the Panel. He said that the Council and Bath Tourism Plus Limited (BTP) have now commenced work on an update of the Destination Management Plan (DMP) for B&NES. He added that the update provides an opportunity to broaden the scope of the old plan from tourism to encompass the wider visitor economy. 

He said that in addition to BTP, the Council also works closely with Bath Business Improvement District, BID, which was established in 2011, to produce and maintain high quality public realm in the city.

He explained that a Steering Group of key partners and stakeholders in the development and expansion of the visitor economy had been formed who’s views and opinions are being taken into account to feed into and inform any developing DMP.

Chris Evans, Director, The Tourism Company said that it was useful to have this opportunity as part of the process to address the Panel. He said that work had begun in February and was scheduled to complete in June / July.

He explained that alongside the Steering Group meetings were also taking place with Sector Groups, including Bath Independent Guest House Association/ Bath Self-catering Association, Cultural Group, Independent Traders Group, Hotel Managers Group and Attractions Group.

He shared some emerging issues with the Panel which included:

·  Overall aim/ appropriate level of growth

·  Loss of distinctiveness/independent businesses

·  Perceived poor value for money

·  Promotion of rural hinterland

·  Arrival by road (gateways, congestion)

The Chairman said that he had previously been involved in the tourism development of the City and that to have a ‘direction of travel’ of future aspirations was essential. He said that he welcomed the work being undertaken.

Councillor Colin Blackburn asked what impact has Airbnb had within B&NES.

Chris Evans replied that he believed that the use of Airbnb had escalated within the last two years and that 20% of rooms would have been booked in previous private accommodation. He added that Airbnb could attract Hen / Stag parties to residential areas and that this could have an impact.

Councillor Christopher Pearce asked what the main reasons were for people visiting the area. He suggested that promotion of the Theatre and restaurants be encouraged.

Chris Evans replied that it was the heritage and the setting of the City, the beauty of its architecture, that the retail offer is good and is recognised globally.

The Group Manager for Economy & Culture informed the Panel that the 19th – 21st May would be very busy in the City as the Tour Series arrives in Bath for events on Saturday 20th May and the Party in the City takes place on Friday 19th May to signify the start of The Bath Festival. In addition the iconic Royal Crescent celebrates its 250th anniversary on Sunday 21st May. He said that race spectators will be encouraged to make a weekend of it in Bath, take a walk around the city, take in the heritage, browse the independent and well known high street shops or visit the spa or some of the many cafes, restaurants and bars.

Councillor Richard Samuel said that any issues raised should be evidenced and then time should be taken to form a plan that will address them.

Councillor Fiona Darey asked how businesses are reacting to the increase in Hen / Stag activity.

Chris Evans replied that he was not aware that any hotel had introduced any restrictions. He added that it had been a fairly recent observation and that no extensive evidence had yet been gathered.

The Chairman stated that as Councillors this Panel has a duty to represent the residents and traders who pay taxes and rates alongside acknowledging the positive value of visitors to the area.

Councillor Richard Samuel said that he would like the environmental impact of this work to be taken on board and for it to be mitigated where possible.

The Panel RESOLVED to note the work being undertaken on the Destination Management Plan and asked to be kept informed of its progress.