North East Lincolnshire attracts 7.6 million visitors per year and this injects £367 million into the local economy and sustains over 6,000 jobs (data sourced from the NELC commissioned Steam Report 2005). It is therefore vital to the success of the towns within our area to ensure they remain pleasant and enjoyable places to visit and live. It is hoped the three 'In Bloom' campaigns along with various Council departments can provide locals and tourists with a vibrant, clean, sustainable and life enhancing environment through inclusion in the 'In Bloom' competition.
The aims of the 'In Bloom' campaign are to encourage the improvement of our surroundings through the imaginative use of trees, shrubs, flowers and landscaping. The campaigns also aim to achieve a litter free and sustainable environment. These aims link directly to the Royal Horticultural Societies three key themes that form the basis of the regional and national competitions. These are:
- Horticultural Achievement
- Community Participation
- Environmental Responsibility
By taking on board the above criteria and with participation from the whole community including businesses, schools and community groups our area can benefit from the following; these have been witnessed in our and other areas taking part in the In Bloom competitions:
- Increase in civic pride by local people taking on the planning and management of their environment
- Long term improvement in the local environment through the planting of floral displays and improved cleanliness
- A boost to the local economy through increased tourism
- Regeneration of disadvantaged areas
- Stimulation of voluntary work and co-operation between community groups
- A means of addressing issues such as sustainability, recycling, minimising waste and conservation