Thanet welcomed a record 4.2 million visitors, worth a whopping £319 million to the local economy, in 2017, according to research released this week.
Independent research commissioned by Visit Kent showed that the number of day trips to the Thanet district leapt by 9.9% in 2017, meanwhile the total number of nights stayed in the district increased by 4.9%.
The total number of jobs supported by tourism rose by 8.7% to 7,950, with the industry accounting for an impressive 19% of total employment across Thanet.
Cllr Ash Ashbee, Cabinet Member for Coastal Development at Thanet District Council said: “The results clearly show that tourism in Thanet is going from strength to strength. The number of day trips to the area is up by 10% which is a solid increase but in the context of the national figure of 0.8% it really is brilliant news.
“We have seen the popularity of Thanet steadily increase in recent years and its reputation as a go-to destination is now firmly established. We are so delighted that the growth we experienced previously has continued. We recognise the economic benefits that a thriving tourism offer brings to the local economy, creating jobs and driving spend in the local area.
“Our ambition is to continue to attract new and returning visitors to this beautiful destination – there are always reasons to visit Thanet. In 2019, Margate Caves is due to reopen in spring and from late September, the Turner Contemporary is hosting the Turner Prize.”
Overall Kent welcomed 65 million visitors in 2017, and the visitor economy’s value rose by 7% to £3.8 billion.
The county remains the third most visited destination outside of London for foreign visitors.
Chief executive of Visit Kent Deirdre Wells OBE said: “Tourism is the UK’s fastest growing service sector and these figures demonstrate the contribution which our vital industry makes to the economy of Kent.
“The collective efforts of tourism businesses across the county have paid dividends and this partnership will be critical in ensuring that this growth continues during a challenging year ahead.”
For the full report go to www.visitthanetbusiness.co.uk or the visitor website www.visitthanet.co.uk
