AS part of their continued 'strategic partnership', Cumbria Tourism and Gleeson Homes are working together to address the pressing challenges the county’s tourism industry continues to face.

Gleeson Homes is well-placed to support Cumbria Tourism's workforce strategy, which is encouraging people to live, work, invest and study in the county - thereby boosting Cumbria’s £4.1billion visitor economy and enriching local communities throughout the county.

The lack of affordable housing continues to be a significant concern for the county’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Cumbria Tourism’s Spring 2024 Business Performance Survey again highlights the issue, along with the cost of accommodation, as one of the main barriers for attracting and retaining staff.

Gleeson Homes claims it’s committed to addressing this challenge head-on by developing 'high-quality, great value homes', suitable for a wide range of buyers.

With multiple Gleeson developments within a 30-minute drive of the Lake District National Park, several sites in the heart of Carlisle and a wide range of homes ready for immediate move-in, those working in the tourism industry can benefit from an easy commute and avoid any housing delays, the company says. 

Gleeson is also offering a £1,500 contribution towards those finishing touches for hospitality workers, making the dream of home ownership even more attainable.

In addition to these incentives, Gleeson is offering discount market value plots for those living and or working in Cumbria, starting from £99,995.

Simon Dicanio, sales director for Gleeson’s Cumbria region, said: "We are delighted to collaborate with Cumbria Tourism to support the local visitor economy.

"Our mission aligns perfectly with this collaboration, as we strive to provide high-quality homes in the areas where they are needed most."

Rachel Tyson, Cumbria Tourism’s head of partnerships and projects, added: "Striking the right balance of housing is vital not only for supporting jobs within our local economy, but also for helping communities to thrive and grow.

"In fact, addressing issues around affordable housing and the housing mix for hospitality staff is one of the priorities highlighted in Cumbria’s new Destination Management Plan (DMP). 

“Gleeson Homes really understand that innovative solutions are needed to tackle fundamental housing challenges, particularly for young people who would like to stay in Cumbria but may worry about the perceived availability and cost of getting on the property ladder.” 

Gleeson Homes says it is proud to continue working with Cumbria Tourism’s network of 22 like-minded patrons and strategic partners.