South Hams and West Devon Face Tourism Crisis: How Local Businesses Can Shape the Future of UK Tourism in 2026!

South Hams and West Devon Face Tourism Crisis: How Local Businesses Can Shape the Future of UK Tourism in 2026!

South Hams and West Devon Face Tourism Crisis: How Local Businesses Can Shape the Future of UK Tourism in 2026!

The tourism economy in the South Hams and West Devon is facing a series of challenges that are impacting local businesses, communities, and the wider economy. With a range of establishments, from independently-owned holiday rentals and cafés to hotels and visitor attractions, supporting both the local workforce and the character of the region, the area is at a crucial point for evaluating the future of its tourism sector. In response to this, South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council, in partnership with Business Information Point (BIP), are coming together to examine how the tourism industry contributes to the local economy and identify the challenges businesses face.

This collaboration seeks to understand the barriers hindering growth, as well as discover what investments are needed to ensure the region’s tourism continues to thrive in the coming years. A central aim of this initiative is to engage with local businesses to ensure that any future support and investment are tailored to meet the real needs of the tourism industry.

The Role of Tourism in South Hams and West Devon

The tourism sector is vital to the South Hams and West Devon economies, supporting a wide variety of businesses, jobs, and community initiatives. The region’s natural beauty, including the iconic Salcombe Estuary and the surrounding coastal areas, draws visitors from far and wide, contributing significantly to the local economy. This sector also helps to sustain the unique character of the area, with locally-owned businesses playing a key role in maintaining the area’s charm and authenticity.

However, despite the importance of tourism, local businesses face several hurdles that need addressing. From rising operational costs to difficulties attracting seasonal workers, many small businesses within the tourism sector are struggling to remain competitive and sustainable. Moreover, the region’s reliance on seasonal tourism has made it particularly vulnerable to shifts in visitor behavior and changing global travel patterns, such as post-pandemic recovery and economic uncertainty.

Tourism Symposium: A Chance to Shape the Future

To tackle these issues, BIP and the councils have organized a Tourism Symposium, set to take place on March 2, 2026, at Follaton House in Totnes. The event offers local business owners in the tourism industry the opportunity to directly engage with policymakers, discuss the challenges they are facing, and provide feedback on how future support and investment can better meet the needs of the sector.

The symposium is a vital opportunity for businesses to contribute their ideas, share insights into what is working in the region’s tourism industry, and identify what needs to be improved. The feedback collected during this event will help shape future strategies and funding initiatives aimed at strengthening the region’s tourism economy.

Ways to Get Involved

There are several ways for local tourism businesses to participate in the ongoing consultation process. In addition to attending the Tourism Symposium, businesses can share their thoughts and experiences through an online survey available on the council’s website. This survey invites businesses to provide feedback on what is working well, where challenges exist, and what types of support would be most beneficial.

Additionally, businesses that may not be able to attend the symposium or complete the survey can request a one-to-one consultation with BIP. This option allows businesses to discuss their concerns in a more private and tailored setting, either by phone, video call, or in person. The consultations will ensure that businesses of all sizes can have their voices heard and contribute to the overall strategy for future tourism development.

Tourism Challenges and Opportunities for the Future

As tourism businesses in South Hams and West Devon face significant challenges, it is essential to ensure that future investments are directed where they are most needed. The consultation process is designed to identify areas where businesses need support, whether it’s through better infrastructure, more sustainable tourism practices, or enhanced marketing efforts. One key area of focus is investment—what kind of funding is necessary to help businesses improve their offerings, reach new markets, and become more resilient to external factors like economic downturns or changes in travel trends.

Moreover, the increasing importance of eco-tourism presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the region. With growing awareness about climate change and environmental responsibility, many tourists are seeking destinations that offer sustainable travel options. By aligning the region’s tourism offerings with these values, South Hams and West Devon have the potential to attract a growing segment of environmentally-conscious travelers, ultimately benefiting both local businesses and the environment.

The consultation also seeks to address the need for improved workforce recruitment. As tourism in the region expands, businesses need to attract and retain seasonal workers, and ensure that they have access to the training and support necessary to provide excellent service to visitors. These aspects are integral to creating a sustainable tourism model that benefits both the local community and visitors alike.

A Path Forward for Tourism in South Hams and West Devon

With a collaborative approach between local businesses, the councils, and BIP, South Hams and West Devon have the opportunity to reshape their tourism economies and ensure their long-term success. By addressing the challenges faced by local businesses, securing future investment, and embracing the evolving needs of tourists, the region can continue to be a desirable destination for both local and international visitors.

Through consultations, symposiums, and online surveys, the tourism industry in these regions will be better equipped to adapt to current challenges and seize future opportunities. By engaging with local businesses and fostering a shared vision for the future of tourism, South Hams and West Devon can ensure their tourism economies remain vibrant, sustainable, and beneficial to the broader community.

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