Waveney set to enjoy ‘bumper summer season’

Waveney is poised to reap the benefits of a 'bumper summer season' that promises to bring in tens of millions of pounds to the local economy, senior council and business leaders said this week.

A multi-million pound boost to the district's tourism industry is being forecast, with celebrations for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June, the Olympic torch relay arriving in Waveney in July, and the Tour of Britain cycle race rolling into north Suffolk in September.

And with the Lowestoft airshow in June and the Latitude Festival in July, it looks set to be a 'massive' summer for Waveney.

With the launch of their first-ever joint holiday guide this year, Waveney and Suffolk Coastal Councils are promoting the Suffolk coast. Across the two districts, tourism is now worth more than �0.5bn to the local economy – attracting a combined eight million visitors a year.

Bruce Provan, Waveney District Council's portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and economic regeneration, said: 'We're looking forward to a bumper summer season ahead.

'The call is for everyone to embrace what's available on their doorstep – all the facilities we have here – as it's a massive year ahead.'

Alex Paul, general manager of Suffolk Secrets and Southwold Lettings, added: 'I know the town's performing well because we're up 20pc on last year.'

mark.boggis@archant.co.uk