The Importance of our Past: Understanding the Economic Value of Heritage in the Eastern Arc Region

The central aim of this report is to demonstrate the value of heritage on a regional basis, specifically the Eastern Arc area from the Wash to Sussex. The report seeks to contextualise heritage tourism within the wider regional economy. Such issues are important as the heritage sector is likely to be impacted by devolution and local government reorganisation that is currently under discussion. The report aims to inform regional-policy makers as well as heritage professionals. Support for heritage across the region should not be seen as a ‘luxury’ but rather as something beneficial for local communities. There are concerns that public funding for some heritage assets will be cut back and channelled into other services.