Fylde MP Mark Menzies will hold further discussions about the area’s infrastructure requirements with Government, following a debate on the tourism industry.
Mr Menzies questioned tourism minister Helen Whately about steps the Government was taking to support the tourism industry across the UK. He added: “As you are well aware, Mr Speaker, Fylde is at the heart of the Lancashire riviera, with fabulous beaches and world-class golf courses.
“With inadequate transport infrastructure, however, people struggle to access it.
“What representation is the Minister making in Government to ensure that people can visit our seaside gems?”
Ms Whatley told him: “My hon Friend is correct that our wonderful coastline, including in his constituency, is one of the great things that our country has to offer visitors.
“We are supporting coastal tourism, including with the £45 Discover England fund.
“The Government have also invested £229 million in the Coastal Communities fund—including in his area—and there is the English coast path.
“I completely agree, however, that we could and should be doing more to support our seaside attractions.
“I would be delighted to meet him to discuss his constituency’s infrastructure requirements and to arrange a meeting with the Secretary of State for Transport to lobby on his behalf.”
Mr Menzies has so far helped secure more than £18 million for the much-needed M55 link road between the motorway network and St Annes, and has campaigned for a passing loop on the South Fylde rail line, to increase the number of trains servicing the area.
Ms Whatley added: “Tourism contributes £60 billion to the UK economy each year and my Department is committed to encouraging visitors from across the world to visit the whole United Kingdom. Our strong and growing tourism industry is good news for the economy and local communities, supporting small businesses and jobs up and down our country.
“The tourism sector deal will help to solve some of the industry’s challenges and establish tourism zones in areas with great tourism ambitions.
“The £45 million Discover England fund encourages visitors to travel beyond London, contributing to levelling up across the country.”