It’s high five for Perthshire

Perth and Kinross is the fifth most popular destination for staycationers, according to Visit Scotland and the Great Britain Tourism Survey.

Just under 10 per cent of the region’s businesses are directly linked to the tourism sector which support more than 600,000 day trips which were made to Perth and Kinross between 2013 and 2015.

Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser said:“Perth and Kinross is amongst the most popular destinations for staycationers and day-trippers which is testament to the lure of the area when it comes to domestic tourists. Ensuring that this message is promoted far and wide is incredibly important.

“Only Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Highlands and Argyll and Bute, the traditional tourist heartlands, are ahead of Perth and Kinross and I would hope the region can move into fourth place.

“It’s also hugely positive to note that businesses and employment in the region is not overly dependent on tourists from further afield, where there is more likely to be sharp drops in demand.

“Ensuring the region has a diverse portfolio of businesses is still very important. I would encourage all partners to work hard to ensure both of these visions come to fruition.”

He added:“In Perth itself there are exciting plans which can only further enhance the region’s reputation.”