Pickering, ON, August 3, 2023 – Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and visit here. The City of Pickering has launched several opportunities for citizens to get involved and help shape the future of tourism in Pickering!
Community Tourism Plan
The City is in the process of developing a three-year Community Tourism Plan (CTP) in partnership with Central Counties Tourism. The Plan will highlight the unique attractions that make Pickering a popular destination to visit and serve as a guide for staff as the City continues to grow tourism, increase cultural services, and develop the economy in Pickering.
Central Counties Tourism works with the regions of York, Durham, and Headwaters, along with their respective municipalities, to increase visitation to the areas by promoting their unique tourism experiences. In addition to their work on the CTP, Central Counties Tourism has also supported the City by providing partnership funding for the creation of key promotional materials, including a tourism video and guide.
The City invites residents, visitors, and business owners to complete the survey available at LetsTalkPickering.ca/CTP. Feedback received will help shape the City’s Community Tourism Plan.
Employment Opportunity
In an effort to support these tourism initiatives, the City is now hiring a Senior Advisor, Creative Industries & Tourism. The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating and delivering programs and initiatives related to the creative industries sector, such as film and tourism, on behalf of the Corporation.
Visit pickering.ca/employment to learn more and apply (deadline is August 11, 2023).
Why Focus on Tourism?
The visitor economy, driven by the tourism industry, contributes to local economic growth and job creation. In 2019, Ontario hosted 144 million visitors, generating over $34 billion in new spending. The tourism industry generated $12 billion in tax revenues and employed more than 391,000 individuals in over 188,000 businesses. In the same year, Durham Region welcomed 3.6 million visitors, generating $321 million in new spending. Pickering is a significant contributor to tourism in the Region, inviting visitors to enjoy its many attractions including the vibrant waterfront, greenspaces, arts and culture sites, and new world-class casino with entertainment and accommodation facilities.
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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 100,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.
Media Contact:
Jesse St. Amant
Coordinator, Cultural Services l Community Services
905.420.4660 ext. 3607
1.866.683.2760
jstamant@pickering.ca