Industry News

This World Tourism Day, (27 September) the spotlight is on Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, highlighting tourism’s critical role not just as an economic driver, but as a catalyst for social progress, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. 

Tourism today faces a pivotal challenge: how to grow responsibly while protecting the very heritage, culture, and biodiversity that make destinations special. 

At Visit County Durham (VCD), we believe sustainable tourism is more than a goal- it is a commitment embedded in everything we do. Our work is guided by the North East Regenerative Tourism Framework, a pioneering approach that goes beyond minimising harm to actively restoring and enhancing the natural, social, and economic fabric of the region. 

We worked in partnership with the wider region, through the Destination Development Partnership Pilot, and over 200 stakeholders, in the development of the Framework. This collaborative tool aims to position the North East as one of the world’s most sustainable and inclusive regions, focusing on regenerative outcomes that benefit communities, economies, and ecosystems alike. 

As we mark World Tourism Day, an annual event which celebrates the importance of tourism in fostering cultural exchange and economic growth, we are also highlighting the work being done to make Durham an inclusive destination. 

We have been working in partnership Destination North East England to create a number of short videos uncovering how tourism and events organisations in the region are driving positive transformation for people and places. The series is designed to celebrate businesses making positive social and environmental impacts; inspire visits; and share ideas which other visitor economy businesses can adopt to enhance the difference they make within their communities. 

Durham features in two of the ‘Stories from North East England: Travel that Makes a Difference’ videos. Richard Kaye from Dalton Park Outlet & Outdoors talks about the outlet’s sustainability and inclusion activities, the Pollinator Park, and the 55 acres of landscaped parkland. 

Durham Cricket is also in the spotlight as Richard Dowson talks about how the club has worked to open the doors for more people to enjoy the sport. 

Visit County Durham is proud to be part of this transformative journey - fostering tourism that protects heritage, uplifts communities, and nurtures nature for generations to come.