tourism

Top leaders pointed to high tourism numbers - some 23 million last year and millions more in the years before - as proof of a big boom after years of unquiet.

It is built on green energy, access to foreign labour, tourism and significant investment and technology transfer from China.

And while the railroad still employs people in the area, the town is seeking to diversify its economy by leaning more heavily into tourism.

Southend-on-Sea City Council's Labour cabinet member for culture, tourism and business - Matt Dent - added his comment under more than 600 others on the petition, expressing concern.

Liverpool BID Company, which manages Accommodation BID, said the levy would "turbo charge" the city's tourism and visitor economy when it comes into force in June.