Recently, High Peak MP, Robert Largan, hosted a virtual business question and answer session in partnership with Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire.
Businesses attending the event included hotels, pubs and tourist attractions from Hope Valley, Buxton and New Mills.
The High Peak businesses asked what the new restrictions would mean for businesses going into the festive period, and what support is available for businesses that are forced to close, or facing reduced demand due to the pandemic.
Robert reassured businesses he will keep pushing High Peak Borough Council to release grants as quickly as possible.
Robert also promised to keep urging ministers in Parliament to ensure businesses have support in the long term until restrictions are hopefully lifted next spring following a successful vaccination programme.
Another Q&A session will be hosted early in the new year. More information can be found on www.visitpeakdistrict.com.
Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire says:
“Throughout the pandemic tourism businesses have worked incredibly hard to adapt and reopen in a Covid-compliant way. They have adhered to changing guidelines and invested in new facilities, technology and safety measures at a considerable cost. Whilst keeping the R rate down must remain our top priority, the blanket county-wide restrictions imposed on tourism businesses in Tier 3 are having a devastating impact.
“Many businesses have seen consumer confidence plummet, with advance bookings wiped out, whilst many more are unable to open at all. With almost half the value of our £2.3bn visitor economy already lost this year, there is an urgent need for a more targeted, localised approach that will restore confidence and allow Covid-compliant businesses to reopen in a responsible way.
“We are grateful for the support of Robert Largan MP and his commitment to High Peak tourism businesses, and we will continue to support businesses across the Peak District & Derbyshire to ensure they are given the help, clarity and guidance they desperately need.”
Robert Largan MP commented:
“Thank you to all the businesses who attended, as well as Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire for organising the event.
“I know this has been an incredibly difficult period for businesses in the High Peak: especially those in the leisure and hospitality sector.
“Throughout the pandemic, I have made every effort to ensure businesses have as much as support as possible.
“If any business needs help or advice, please don’t hesitate to contact me via [email protected].”
