Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on its inaugural Destination Management Plan (DMP), which will guide the future direction of tourism on the Northern Beaches.

Tourism is a multi-billion dollar industry on the Northern Beaches with this sector generating over $2.5 billion through direct and indirect sales in 2016/17.  This includes spend by visitors in local businesses such as accommodation, hospitality, entertainment and leisure.

And it's great for local employment too with 13,880 jobs in the area relying on the tourism and hospitality sector (9,500 direct, 4380 indirect).

Mayor Regan said the DMP will provide a framework to help manage the impact of tourism on our community.

“We need your help to make sure future tourism is well planned and sustainable along with protecting and enriching our environment and the people who live here.

“People come from all over the world to visit our famous beaches and explore the area's natural beauty but our visitors aren't just holiday makers. In fact, we know that most of these visitors are our friends and family coming to stay.”

Council recently held its inaugural Tourism Industry Summit with representatives from Tourism Australia, Destination NSW, National Parks and Wildlife and a variety of local businesses and community leaders.

“We discussed a sustainable tourism strategy and the feedback gathered will also guide our Northern Beaches Destination Management Plan. It was a standing-room only event,” Mayor Regan said.

People can view Council’s draft Key Directions that will shape the DMP and lodge their feedback on Council’s website. Deadline for feedback is 7 July.

Media Enquiries: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 9942 2678