THE DEADLINE for rural tourism businesses and communities to apply for funding to improve their tourism facilities is nearing.

The GFirst Local Enterprise Partnership is working with the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), to increase Gloucestershire’s all-year round tourism offer, aided by a new national £177 million funding boost managed through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Cabinet member for enterprise and partnerships at Cotswold District Council, Chris Hancock, said:“Visitors are a major source of income in the Cotswolds, and this new source of funding presents a great opportunity for local tourism businesses – and those planning to diversify into tourism-oriented ventures – to expand their horizons. Additionally, communities who have ideas that will boost local tourism can apply for money from this funding to bring them to life. This is well worth applying for, especially since it could bring so many benefits for the local economy. Given the amount of preparatory work which may be necessary to obtain funding, I would advise any applicants to begin the process as soon as possible.”

Applications for the funding will be accepted by DEFRA until Friday, October 30.

To apply for the funding visit the www.gov.uk website and search for tourism in gloucestershire.