Kent Accommodation Study

The future success of Kent’s visitor economy is partly dependent upon the provision of an optimum level of accommodation stock, to meet the demand of domestic and inbound markets, and to support Visit Kent’s recovery strategy following the Covid 19 pandemic. Gradually increasing overnight stays in the county is a key component of Visit Kent’s strategy for recovery, alongside the stabilisation and growth of leisure and MICE tourism to achieve key growth targets, boost local economies, and drive inward investment and job opportunities in the sector. High quality and competitive hotel provision across the county is regarded as a critical determinant of the Kent visitor economy’s capacity to build on the increased demand witnessed pre-pandemic, in order to stimulate recovery, competitiveness and resilience.

In 2020, Visit Kent published a comprehensive two-year study that explored the supply and demand for new hotel accommodation across the county. The study, carried out by Canterbury Christ Church University, identified the current gaps in Kent’s hotel provision and opportunities for future growth. This report provides investors and developers with valuable insights into how the visitor economy and accommodation provision fit into the DNA of the districts across Kent, and into current and future strategic planning and development. To access this report, please contact louisa.mungall@visitkent.co.uk.

An executive summary of the study and district dashboards, with key results, are available below: