Britain’s longest National Trail, the 630-mile South West Coast Path (SWCP), has proved to be a major money-spinner for the region.
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Path brings 7,500 jobs and £300m into region - 6 October 2003

Britain’s longest National Trail, the 630-mile South West Coast Path (SWCP), has proved to be a major money-spinner for the region.


New research reveals that it generates about £300 million a year for the South West economy, enough to support more than 7,500 jobs.

The article in the October-November issue of Countryside Focus, adds that the research found that more than a quarter of visitors come to the region because of the Path; that these visitors spend some £136 million a year; that residents themselves take about 23 million walks on the path and a further £48 million is generated by residents bringing friends and relatives on Path walks.

Countryside Agency chairman Ewen Cameron said:

“This research demonstrates just how much a National Trail can contribute to the regenaration of an area, while   providing an excellent resource for boosting health and fitness and people’s sheer enjoyment of the countryside”.

He continued:

“It’s official – National Trails provide an excellent return on investment and are a real magnet for attracting visitors to an area.”

More information on this and other initiatives led or supported by the Countryside Agency are in Countryside Focus, also available online at www.countryside.gov.uk 

The Countryside Agency is the statutory body working to make the quality of life better for people in the countryside and the quality of the countryside better for everyone.

The national press office in London has details on the stories in Countryside Focus and more.   We can provide briefings on rural issues and access to experts in all our policy areas.     Contact Nigel Ellway or Isobel Coy on 020 7340 2907/2906.

The Countryside Agency also has a network of regional PR advisers who can provide regional stories and regional examples of national projects. 

  • East of England – Lindy Margach on 01394 610022
  • East Midlands - Julia Smith on 01636 636398
  • West Midlands - Judie Kellie on 01905 641900
  • South West - Pam Beddard on 0117 987 0442
  • Yorkshire & The Humber - Paul   Johnston on 01947 880513
  • North East – call national press office
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