London Olympics offer £24m opportunity for Norfolk tourism

Norfolk's tourism is well positioned to benefit from the 2012 Olympic Games in London, claims a report being presented this month to Norfolk County Council's Economic Development and Cultural Services Overview and Scrutiny Panel. The Games could be worth an estimated £24m to Norfolk’s tourism industry. However, the report says the real challenges lie in ensuring the opportunities are seized upon.

With tickets due to go on sale in April 2010, the report highlights that preparations need to be made now to ensure the county's businesses can respond to and benefit from the expected demand.

Brian Iles, cabinet member for Economic Development at Norfolk County Council, said, ‘Given Norfolk's relative proximity to the capital our tourism industry in particular should benefit.

‘We want Norfolk to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime event and we will help and encourage in any way we can.’

• A campaign around coming to Norfolk and visiting the Games, which will demonstrate the county's wider offer as well as its proximity to London
• Effective links between the airport and railway/coach services in Norfolk to provide a seamless journey for international visitors travelling to and from London.

You can download the full report, Business and Tourism Opportunities for Norfolk from the London 2012 Games, on the Norfolk County Council website here (pdf file).