💨 Abstract

Canterbury, a historic UNESCO Heritage City, is experiencing a paradox: increased tourist numbers but struggling local businesses. Despite a 5% increase in day trips since 2019, small independent shops and hotels are closing due to competition from high street chains, tourist shops, and short-term rentals. The Canterbury Business Improvement District (BID) is working to encourage longer stays and local spending, but footfall has decreased by 14.1%

Courtesy: Lillie-Rose Lenga-Kroma