Bournemouth University and National Coastal Tourism Academy win national funding for tourism project

Bournemouth University and the National Coastal Tourism Academy have won national funding to research health and well-being tourism in Dorset.

The Economic and Social Research Council is funding the project ‘Destination FEELGOOD’ which will work with 80 visitor-facing businesses across Dorset to create healthy lifestyle services.

During the project, the business networks will meet every two to three months for business mentoring, networking and the opportunity to listen to guest speakers.

The NCTA will then recruit ten businesses to exchange ideas and feedback on the project.

Director of NCTA, Samantha Richardson, said: “We’re thrilled to have been awarded this funding to focus on how businesses in Bournemouth, Weymouth and Dorchester could promote themselves as healthy living resorts.

“Enjoying regular exercise and eating healthily is increasingly on the public’s agenda. This funding will enable us to work with three towns across Dorset to promote the county’s rich, natural assets not only to encourage visitors to lead positive lifestyles, but to help local businesses tap into new markets and create growth.”

Professor Heather Hartwell, of Bournemouth University’s School of Tourism, said: “This project offers an ideal opportunity for BU students to engage practically with local businesses on a one-to-one basis.

“Initially we will be looking at three key ideas; marketing and product opportunities, employer wellbeing and relevant legislation, innovation and food.

“The project will be tracked to examine the performance of all participating businesses. And a group of key organisations such as Active Dorset and public health consultants will be engaged to provide feedback for local residents.”

Visitor-facing businesses who would like to take part should contact Alex Moss at the National Coastal Tourism Academy, alex.moss@coastaltourismacademy.co.uk

Read more at Blackmore Vale