Work is progressing on the development of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape Regenerative Tourism Plan, which will provide a strategic framework for supporting a visitor economy that delivers positive outcomes for the landscape, local communities, businesses and visitors. The plan is being developed to move beyond traditional sustainable tourism approaches, focusing on how tourism can actively contribute to the environmental, social and economic wellbeing of Bowland.
The plan is bringing together evidence, stakeholder feedback and best practice to identify opportunities for tourism to support nature recovery, strengthen local distinctiveness, encourage responsible visitor behaviour and increase the benefits that tourism generates for local communities and businesses. It will establish a shared vision for regenerative tourism across the National Landscape and outline practical actions that partners can deliver over the coming years.
As part of the engagement process, a business event is planned for 5 November, providing an opportunity for tourism and hospitality businesses to contribute directly to the development of the plan. The event will introduce the principles of regenerative tourism, present emerging findings from the project and facilitate discussions around the opportunities and challenges facing the visitor economy within Bowland.
The workshop will seek to gather local knowledge and business perspectives to help shape the final plan, ensuring that proposed actions are practical, relevant and aligned with the needs of those operating within the area. It will also provide a valuable networking opportunity, encouraging collaboration between businesses and highlighting how a regenerative approach can enhance both visitor experiences and the long-term resilience of the local economy.
Following the November event, feedback from participants will be incorporated into plan for wider consultation with partners in 2027.
