A FOREST councillor says it is “crucial” that the district has a coordinated approach to attracting visitors to the area post-pandemic.

Cabinet Member for Economy Cllr Bernie O’Neill was speaking after the council extended its partnership with Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism until 2025.

The council says it will continue to work alongside the DMO on campaigns that help to highlight the “incredible potential” of the area.

It will also continue to support the reopening of high streets after the pandemic, and “bring the benefit of visitor spend” to towns, particularly resulting from the demand for ‘staycations’.

Cllr O’Neill said: “It’s fantastic to be able to further extend our working partnership with Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism.

“The visitor economy is of huge economic importance to the district and is vital in supporting our local communities and helping our high streets to thrive.

“Working with Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism enables us to reach a wider audience to show just what the Forest of Dean can provide to visitors.

“Though the difficulty of the past couple of years has subsided a little, businesses in the visitor economy remain under great pressure in a highly competitive market.

“At times like this, it is even more crucial that the District has a coordinated approach to compete with other areas, in order to reach out, and connect with potential visitors and I’m pleased that Cabinet have agreed to continue this working partnership until 2025.”

Co-Chair of Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism, Helen O’Kane, added: “Tourism is a vital engine in the rural economy, supporting jobs, education and well-being.

“To extend our partnership with Forest of Dean District Council enables us to continue our work to raise the profile of our beautiful area nationally and internationally.

“Thanks to this investment in Visit Dean Wye, Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism has played a major role in representing businesses through the pandemic and we’re pleased to see our work has helped increase tourism to the areas.

“We now have the funding to continue to support hospitality and tourism businesses and deliver real benefits to the wider community.”

For more information on Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Tourism, go to www.visitdeanwye.co.uk.