Leisure Sector Can Benefit from Staycation 2019
Despite obvious uncertainties, 2019 has the potential to be being another strong year for domestic tourism.
I envisage the growth of new leisure developments will continue due to the much-publicised trends in ‘staycations’ and ‘extra-cations’ – particularly, in the Lake District, but also in the Lancaster and Morecambe regions, because of regeneration projects planned.
At long last there seems to be real momentum in the North West to recognise the untapped potential in promoting National Landscapes. These include our protected coastal reserves and stunning rural landscape, plus the great variety of leisure activities available in the region.
The World Heritage Status of The Lake District (announced in 2017) is gradually permeating through the region, investing in hotels and holiday parks.
What is more encouraging is the spread of investment to districts on the edge of The Lakes, plus the innovative development of leisure and recreational facilities aiming to be different, sustainable, and offer ‘something special’. I think this is certainly a growth area for 2019.
RISING DEMAND FOR GLAMPING
We are seeing an increase in work on projects that cater ‘staycation’ facilities. The long hot summer of 2018 has kickstarted the ‘unplanned long weekend’ with families enjoying local countryside without the hassle and cost of travelling abroad. While the weather cannot be guaranteed, the demand for glamping accommodation is certainly set to rise on the back of this activity.
HPA has been involved in a project to create modular PlusPods, as well as working on the development of timber lodges. We expect to work on more similar projects over the next year, particularly eco-friendly, energy-efficient design features, and the use of sustainable materials.
At the other end of the ‘staycation’ spectrum is the luxury weekend away. Establishments in the region are investing in major refurbishment projects. An example being our work at Another Place, The Lake, offering ‘original experiences in distinctive locations’.
It certainly appears to be in vogue to invest in old buildings, bringing them back to life with high class appeal. A local example is The Royal Kings Arms Hotel in Lancaster, where we have helped with major refurbishment to their Listed building, transforming it into Lancaster’s ‘luxury boutique hotel.’
Exciting times ahead for Morecambe
Lancaster City Council’s driving force behind the development of the Canal Quarter, a multi-use development for the 16-acre site along Lancaster canal will increase interest and investment to this popular waterway and is definitely an area to keep an eye on in 2019.
The feasibility study to build a new Eden Centre in Morecambe is a testament to the area’s potential to be a thriving tourism destination once again. Eden Project North potentially could bring a huge economic boost to the town and is quoted to be a ‘game-changer’ for regeneration, but let’s see how far this plan gets in 2019. Morecambe’s unique environment and coastal location certainly offers the perfect combination for an attraction of this magnitude.
It’s going to be an exciting year for the region. I encourage businesses in leisure development to adopt sustainable tourism practices and preserve the local heritage. And for holidaymakers in 2019, welcome to the North West and enjoy your stay!
Written by Zoe Hooton, director at HPA.
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