Tourism sector is vital

28/02/2014 @ 09:46

Tourism is vital to the Montgomeryshire economy, providing important investment and employment, according to the area’s MP and AM who have been helping to promote Wales Tourism Week (22^ndFebruary to 2^nd March).

MP Glyn Davies and AM Russell George paid a visit to Gwernydd Hall Holiday Home Park at New Mills, near Newtown to see the latest investment at the site.

The holiday home park is owned and operated by Salop Leisure which has a number of caravan parks in Montgomeryshire.

“We have a natural environment and numerous tourism attractions in Montgomeryshire that act as a magnet for thousands of visitors each year,” said Mr Davies.

“Many of these tourists stay in local accommodation or spend money in local businesses during their visit, providing an important income for the local economy. It’s important for us to promote the area and attract more visitors to help support what is an important sector for us.”

Mr Davies said he was impressed at the new facilities and investment that had taken place at Gwernydd.

Later in the day Mr George went to a meeting of local tourism providers at the uStrike bowling centre in Newtown. The meeting was arranged as part of Wales Tourism Week which is highlighting the Welsh tourism sector.

“It’s important that we understand and support the many business and individuals who work within the tourism sector in Montgomeryshire and in turn help bring investment into the area,” said Mr George.

“The sector not only provides direct employment and investment but also supports a large local supplier network as well as communities and other businesses.”

Wales’ holiday and touring park industry alone provides an estimated contribution of £317m to the Welsh economy, employing 10,645 direct and indirect jobs in Wales. They also attract around 2.9 million visitor each year.

Tomorrow (Sat), Mr Davies and Mr George will take part in a walk along the Montgomery Canal from Newtown, organised by the Friends of the Montgomery Canal.

The walk will head to Freestone Lock before returning via Penarth Nature Reserve from 10.30am.

Caption:

Tony Bywater, Chairman of Salop Leisure, with Russell George AM, Glyn Davies MP and Mark Bebb, Joint Managing Director of Salop Leisure.