England’s Seafood Coast inititive a reel catch for holiday letting in South Devon

Last Updated on February 24, 2017 by admin

England’s Seafood Coast Initiative launched to make South Devon the heart of seafood

If we said “seafood”, where would you think of? A new initiative (England’s Seafood Coast) has been launched by Mitch Tonks, Visit Devon, and the Torbay Culture Board. It aims to position ‘Torbay’ and ‘South Devon’ at the heart of Britain’s seafood culture.

It’s staggering to think that England’s highest value seafood catch is landed at Brixham, yet less than 10% of it is eaten locally. Chef Mitch Tonks wants this to change, and aims to celebrate local seafood with the support of the Discover England Fund.

The plan

England’s Seafood Coast will be supported through a number of events and activities whilst bringing together the local seafood community.

Project Director Carolyn Custerson, ERTC Chief Executive Officer said: “Torbay’s new Tourism Destination Management Plan identifies the development of our cultural food and drink offer to help attract new visitors to the area. This project will inspire local businesses and partners to work together to develop and communicate England’s Seafood Coast product and brand to put the English Riviera on the map as a foodie destination.”

What this means in reality is a more joined up approach to promoting local seafood producers and providers, with the best in the locality being mapped for publicity.

Digital marketing is also set to play a vital role in increasing the awareness of the area’s best seafood experiences; a platform is currently being designed to make it easier for local residents and visitors to enjoy local seafood.

The aim

So why has this new project been created? Well, put simply, to boost the local area’s profile across the UK and globally. Thanks to the English Riviera Tourism Company, the project has successfully secured funding. Secured from the Government’s three-year Discover England Fund, which is putting £40million into the UK’s tourism industry.

The funding is designed to grow and increase the competitiveness of England’s tourism offerings and develop bookable tourism products. The food offerings are a core part of this goal, drawing more guests to visit areas with outstanding culinary heritage.

This investment is great news for Torbay and South Devon’s tourism industry. As well as boosting local interest in the area’s fishing heritage, the demand for holiday letting accommodation will also benefit.

Are you a holiday homeowner with great food and produce on your doorstep? Make sure you’re using it as a marketing asset. Whether on your blog, through social media or email marketing, do spread the word. Food is becoming an increasingly significant factor in buying decisions including the selection of holiday destinations.

For more information or to get involved with the project, click here.

Boshers offer specialist holiday home insurance to owners across the UK. Require a quote for your holiday apartment, cottage or complex? Please give us a call on 01237 429444.