02.03.16
DfT offers £1m to heritage railways for tourism ideas
A £1m fund is up for grabs for the best ideas from rail operators, particularly heritage and community railways, to encourage tourists to use Britain’s railways.
The Department for Transport competition is offering the winning operators grants of £25,000 to £75,000 to develop their ideas as part of a plan to promote tourism in the UK.
Projects could include improving the connectivity of heritage and community rail, improved disability access, special ticketing offers and better cycle facilities at stations.
David Evennett MP, minister for tourism, said: “We want more tourists to experience the best of Britain beyond the capital and help boost local economies across the country. Heritage railways are a huge draw for tourists and this competition will encourage more visitors to see some of the hidden gems the country has to offer.”
The competition is open until 4 April, with a pitching event in London on 10 May.
(Image c. Peter Trimming)