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The Interreg cross-border region shares a common maritime cultural heritage, forged through centuries of trade, common experiences and past conflict. The maritime heritage of the cross-border region is a largely untapped tourism resource, presenting opportunities for development ranging from improving existing museums and heritage organisations through to exploring new maritime cultural heritage links. Tourism has a key role to play in the economy and identity of the region. Innovative and unique The Maritime Heritage Trail is a collaborative project between local authorities and cultural and tourism organisations in Kent, East Sussex, Nord Pas de Calais and Somme. Led by Medway Council and part-financed by the European Union, it builds on the achievements of the two previous Interreg projects. The new project is worth £2,235,264 including £261,030 from the European Regional Development Fund for the Medway area. It is a multi-faceted project that takes a cohesive approach to increasing both the awareness and the quality of the maritime tourism attractions on offer to encourage new visitors to the area.
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It is unique: there is no other organisation, network of businesses or project that brings together the maritime heritage sector. It links to local and regional tourism and economic development strategies as well as the EU Lisbon Agenda. It meets sustainable transport objectives by promoting the accessibility of the region’s maritime heritage and encouraging visitors to use public transport, as well as cycling and walking routes.
Extending tourism opportunities
Increased awareness of the maritime cultural heritage, combined with measures to improve, develop and promote appropriate maritime products, will encourage people to explore coastal areas. It will lead to more visitors and have a positive economic impact. It will help attract visitors away from the most popular sites, such as Canterbury and Leeds Castle. It will also balance the focus in Kent on the Garden of England branding. The project will contribute to jobs in coastal areas, which continue to suffer from the effects of the decline in traditional manufacturing and port industries.
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