Kevin Foster, Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman for Torbay, has welcomed new GDP figures showing the economy has now moved ahead of its pre-crisis level on a visit to Beverley Holidays in Goodrington.
The figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), show the economy is now 0.2% ahead of its pre-crisis peak, which was reached in the first quarter of 2008. The ONS said the economy had grown 3.1% since the second quarter of last year.
Kevin said: “The news that GDP is now back to pre-crisis levels is not just a statistic of interest to those in the media or economists, but a fact that reflects the real impact economic growth nationally is having here in the bay. As confidence builds more families feel able to book a summer break or visit one of our award winning attractions.”
“There is still a lot of work to do in terms of getting those in the bay who are still looking for work back into employment, yet today marks a milestone on the road to recovery and a sign that the long term economic plan for our future is working.”
Michael Jeavons, Director of Beverley Holidays and Whitehill Park, is thrilled with how the businesses are performing: “Booking figures for both our parks in Paignton are up by more than 10% compared to last year, with plenty more visitors expected.
“The recent hot weather looks set to stay and our outdoor and indoor pools are proving very popular among those looking to bask in the Great British sunshine!”