Henry Smith MP has welcomed the launch of the new Tourism Sector Deal, which will benefit the 370 tourism-related businesses in Crawley.

The tourism, hospitality and experience industries play a vital role in boosting the local economy in Crawley. These businesses will now be able to access a new tourism data hub, enabling them to offer an even better service for their visitors.

The Deal – part of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy – will help deliver 10,000 new apprenticeships, getting more people involved with the sector and ensuring it continues to go from strength to strength in the future.

Henry said;

“With Gatwick Airport directly connecting our town to the world, tourism is a hugely important industry for Crawley. I’m delighted that the 370 tourism-related businesses here will now be able to receive additional support, through the modern Industrial Strategy.

“I hope that they are able to use the opportunities of the Sector Deal to attract even more people to the local area, creating more good jobs for Crawley residents.

“I’m proud that so many people want to visit the UK every year, and hope that this deal will help us see even higher visitor numbers.”

The tourism sector is worth £68 billion every year to the UK economy, and employs 1.6 million people across the country. As we leave the EU, the Government is determined to support the industry and help it to grow. By 2025, there will be 9 million additional visits from people overseas to the UK.

Under the new deal, more than 10,000 people who work in the tourism industry will also benefit from new mentorship schemes, while a further £250,000 is being provided to improve broadband connectivity in a number of conference centres across the country.