Caithness and Sutherland tourism restoration plan secures £293ok

An organization promoting tourism in the far north has received £ 293,000 from a special fund as a “path to recovery” for the post-pandemic tourism industry in Caithness and Sutherland.

Venture North has successfully received a three year funding package from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to increase its capacity as a Destination Management Organization (DMO) for the Caithness and Sutherland tourism sector.

A colorful scene at Lybster harbor. Image: Angus Mackay

Catherine Macleod, Chair of Venture North said, “We are delighted to have received £ 293,000 of Project Fund from the HIE Strategic Recovery Fund and look forward to starting the hiring of a goal development manager and support team, followed by working with ours Develop the recovery plan for stakeholders. “

The additional funding will allow Venture North to provide the support it needs to rebuild the tourism industries in Caithness and Sutherland after the pandemic. A qualified team will shortly be hired to achieve cooperation between local development companies and other tourist interest groups and to jointly develop a strategy for the restoration of tourist destinations.

Catherine MacLeod, Chairwoman of Venture North, said, “We’re delighted to have secured £ 293,000.” Image: DGS

As the primary DMO for Caithness and Sutherland, Venture North was able to meet HIE’s funding criteria. The fund supports strategically important DMOs in recognition of their important role in supporting the tourism sector, their extensive reach for local businesses and communities, and their impact on sustainable green tourism recovery and responsible visitor management.

Venture North was founded in 2013 by a core group of 12 entrepreneurs from the far north to increase tourism footprint and to help Caithness and Sutherland tourism companies work together to create more resources and assets.

An atmospheric view of Wick’s harbor area. Image: DGS

As a DMO, it has accomplished much of its original strategy, including developing a website, growing membership, attending tourism events, creating and placing a hugely successful food event on the annual calendar, and an acclaimed series of videos about the area.

In mid-2020, before anyone knew the real impact of the pandemic, the board approved a strategy document, Venture North 2030 Vision, which outlines a plan for achieving its strategic and commercial goals.

A £ 1.5m tourism plan will help 500 communities on the north coast before visitor numbers are expected to surge in the northern highlands this summer

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