Mendip Activity Centre Generates £3.26 Million for Local Economy and Supports 122 Jobs

Mendip Activity Centre, a part of the Mendip Adventure group, has been confirmed as a major economic driver for the North Somerset and wider Mendip Hills area, according to a new independent economic impact report by The South West Research Company Ltd.

Over a 12-month period (March 2024 to February 2025), Mendip Activity Centre and its campsite Mendip Basecamp welcomed 108,000 visitors, delivering a total of 165,000 visitor days. This footfall translated into a £3.26 million boost in business turnover for the local economy and supported the equivalent of 122 full-time jobs.

A Key Player in the Rural Economy

The analysis found that Mendip Activity Centre generates:

• £1.16 million in direct visitor spending in the local area, including food, drink, retail and transport

• £2.1 million in additional supply chain and wage-based spending

• A total business turnover contribution of £3.26 million, generating £1.8 million in Gross Value Added (GVA)
  

David Eddins, CEO of Mendip Adventure said: “I was shocked to read the results of this report! As an independent and family-run business, we’re proud to be delivering year-round jobs, driving footfall to local businesses, and giving families, schools, and groups unforgettable experiences and inspiring adventures. This report validates the importance of tourism and experience-based businesses to the local and national economy.”

Supporting Local Jobs

The report highlights that 101 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs are supported directly by Mendip-related activity, with a further 21 roles supported indirectly or through induced spend. These jobs span education, tourism, operations, catering and local suppliers.

The report states: “The total estimated business turnover in the local area arising as a result of  Mendip Activity Centre and their visitors’ activity both in and away from the centre was approximately £3.3 million.”

It also found:“101 direct FTE jobs are supported by Mendip Activity Centre-related activity in the local area, rising to a total of 122 FTE jobs when indirect and induced employment is also considered.”

National and Local Appeal

Mendip Activity Centre’s audience is both regional and national:

• 57% of public visitors had a ‘BS’ postcode

• 34% came from elsewhere in the South West

• 9% travelled from other parts of the UK

Satisfaction, Sustainability and Social Value

Visitors consistently rated their experience highly. 93% of public visitors and 95% of group visitors said they were likely or very likely to return, with the centre receiving a Net Promoter Score of +72% (public) and +81% (groups).

• 66% of public visitors and 72% of group visitors rated the centre’s sustainability efforts as good or very good

• 69% of public visitors and 76% of group visitors rated its accessibility as good or very good

• Around 1 in 10 public visitors were visiting with someone who had a disability