An action plan to boost tourism across the district is being put together by Braintree Council.

A team of councillors has worked with Visit Essex and Witham Town Council on creating a strategy to increase tourism revenue and visitor numbers.

According to the group’s report, tourism was worth £179 million to the district in 2015, equivalent to seven per cent of the total economy, however the area is lagging behind the nearby Maldon, Colchester, and Tendring districts.

Tom Cunningham, councillor responsible for economic development, said: “The district is rich in culture and heritage. The three market towns offer a mix of shopping opportunities.

“We have beautiful countryside and there are some fantastic places to eat and drink.”

A new tourist website is expected. The council will promote its Grape and Grain Trail and the team will also consider cultural and heritage trails in a similar fashion.

Mr Cunningham said: “We want to build on this and the task and finish group will look at suggestions on how we can attract more visitors to the district. “Our ultimate aim is to bring more jobs to the area and strengthen the local economy.”

Potentially extra staff and resources could be used to harness the district’s tourist potential in conjunction with a drive to bring in and promote accommodation within the area.

At the moment, 3.3 million of the 3.5 million trips to the district in 2015 are only day trips.

The report will be considered by full council in April, who will then decide whether to proceed with the plans.