Survey launched to help shape new organisation for Cornwall’s visitor economy

Published On: 29 November 2025Last Updated: 29 November 2025By CornishStuff

Cornwall’s tourism sector is being asked to help shape a new organisation that could guide the future of the Duchy’s visitor economy. A survey has launched to gather views on how a new Destination Management Organisation should be structured, following the loss of Visit Cornwall.

Tourism Businesses Asked to Share Their Views

The survey, created by a small working group from the tourism sector in partnership with Cornwall Council and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Economic Forum, is open now. Businesses, tourism-related associations, tourist information centres and local councils are being asked what they want from a new organisation that will represent and support the sector.

Cornwall Council describes DMOs as playing a vital role in promoting the county as a welcoming, year-round destination. They also share research and represent the needs of employers, membership organisations and community stakeholders across Cornwall’s visitor economy.

Cornwall Council says feedback gathered through the survey will be presented at an event at the Eden Project in late January, where industry leaders will discuss the next steps in establishing the new body.

Councillor Sarah Preece, cabinet member with responsibility for Tourism at Cornwall Council, said: “We are committed to working with partners to bring together a united, sector-led organisation that will ensure Cornwall remains a leading UK destination.

“This survey offers all those representing the visitor economy the opportunity to tell us what is needed from a Destination Management Organisation to ensure Cornwall Council can support the sector to thrive. We want to make sure everyone’s voice is heard so it’s really important we hear from as many different parts of the sector as possible.”

Sector Leaders Call for Strong Collaboration

Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive of St Austell Brewery and member of the steering group, highlighted the importance of unity in shaping the sector’s future.

Kevin said: “As one of the region’s largest employers and a proud champion of Cornish hospitality, we need to work together to define what a strong, coordinated plan looks like for the future.

“Tourism remains the backbone of Cornwall’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and sustaining local businesses. The loss of Visit Cornwall comes at a time when the sector faces significant challenges, falling visitor numbers and rising costs.”

Kevin added: “Engagement from all corners of the sector will be critical to building resilience and driving growth. We hope Cornwall Council will continue to play a vital role in this process, working alongside businesses to ensure our visitor economy thrives for generations to come.”

Andy Jasper, CEO of The Charity Eden Project, said: “It’s exciting that all sectors are now galvanising around a shared purpose, and for us all to play a role in shaping our strategy, working together to drive growth for Cornwall with tourism at the very heart.

“Launching the survey ensures we’re defining the right approach with all of Cornwall’s stakeholders involved. This will help us when we host the gathering of tourism related businesses in January, to shape the most impactful plan to market and deliver growth for the region, reminding the world of the south west and Cornwall’s status as the jewel in the UK’s crown and a truly unmissable destination.

“Eeden Project fully intends to continue to play a key role in convening and supporting the industry to drive recovery and remind people of all the great reasons why they should visit Cornwall.”

Katie Warren, speaking for the Cornwall Self-Catering Collective, said: “There has never been a more vital or opportune time for businesses to come together collectively and be a force of good for the tourism sector, which is a consistent backbone to Cornwall’s economy. With the creation this new body, we will have a clear marketing plan to promote Brand Cornwall, work together for sustainable, year-round tourism to help give job certainty and represent all sector partners at a local level when it comes to future legislation.”