Torbay MP in round-table talks at Torquay holiday park

Parkdean Resorts, one of the the UK’s leading holiday park operator, recently welcomed Torbay MP Steve Darling and representatives and members of UKHospitality, the leading trade body for hospitality, to Torquay Holiday Park.

The team took Mr Darling and his guide dog, Jennie, on a tour of the park’s facilities, followed by a roundtable discussion between Mr Darling and representatives from Parkdean Resorts, UKHospitality, and local hospitality businesses Hollywood Bowl, McDonald’s Torquay, Play Cafe Torquay and Riviera Events.

During the tour, the group engaged with team members from various departments across the park. At the round table, discussions focused on how the 2024 Budget has been affecting business and the implications of new government legislation.

Mr Darling said: “I’m incredibly grateful to Parkdean Resorts for hosting the UKHospitality meeting at Torquay Holiday Park. It was a productive and insightful session, bringing together voices from across the sector to discuss the challenges facing hospitality in Torbay. With over 8,000 local jobs depending on this industry, it’s vital we listen, act, and ensure businesses get the support they need.”

Torquay Holiday Park employs approximately 100 people in peak season and welcomes roughly 30,000 guests every year, helping to boost the local economy as guests explore shops, restaurants, and attractions in Torquay and across Devon.

Paul Todd, General Manager at Torquay Holiday Park, said: “We were pleased to welcome Mr Darling to Torquay Holiday Park. It was an honour to host the roundtable discussion and have the opportunity to share ideas with Steve, UKHospitality, and our neighbouring businesses about how we can collectively drive change in our industry. Steve’s commitment to the hospitality industry in the local area has been outstanding, and we’re excited to continue working collaboratively with him.”

Jim Cathcart, Policy Director at UKHospitality, said: “We had a great visit to Torquay Holiday Park. It provided a valuable chance to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing our sector, giving hospitality businesses the platform to engage with an MP, particularly in the run up to the Autumn Budget. We’re grateful to Steve for engaging so openly and for recognising the critical role hospitality plays in driving jobs, growth and investment across the UK."