OUTDOOR leisure and accommodation businesses are invited to an open day at Queen Elizabeth Country Park to see if their business could thrive there.

Businesses will be welcomed with an information pack and given a tour of the country park, between Petersfield and Clanfield.

They will also have an opportunity to speak to staff, hear about future plans and ask questions about potential sites and buildings where they could re-locate to attract customers.

The ticket only day at Hampshire’s biggest country park - 20 miles of trails for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, and Butser Hill National Nature Reserve, is on Tuesday, December 13, 10am to midday.

As well as Queen Elizabeth Country Park, the five other outdoor attraction owned by Hampshire County Council are holding similar open days for busineses

Councillor Andrew Gibson, the County Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Recreation and Countryside, said: “It’s an exciting time for our six country parks which already attract 2.5 million visitors a year from Hampshire and beyond. Visitor numbers are set to grow even further as we invest £8.7m across the parks to build new and improved visitor centres, restaurants, cafés and play opportunities. This investment could also attract an additional £7.6m in external funding, providing a further boost.

“Our country parks are focal points for families, walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. They represent a wonderful opportunity for new and existing businesses wanting to grow, to operate activities such as adventure play, cycle hire or accommodation businesses such as glamping or holiday lets. Art or photography business, as well as other activity businesses, could also do well in these beautiful countryside locations. These open days are a perfect opportunity for businesses to ask questions and see how they could thrive at our country parks.”

The business open days are taking place at Manor Farm Country Park, Pylands Lane, Bursledon, near Southampton, and Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Abbey, also near Southampton.

Staunton Country Park, Middle Park Way, at Havant, Lepe Country Park, Exbury, New Forest, and Titchfield Haven, Cliff Road, Fareham, PO14 3JT, are also holding open days.

For more information visit the council website www.hants.gov.uk or email [email protected] for details and to book tickets.