Following the finding by Janet Finch-Saunders AM that the number of overnight visits by GB residents choosing to holiday in Wales between January and September 2017 was lower than the same period in 2016, the Member is calling again for the Welsh Government to reduce its control of Visit Wales to allow an industry-led approach to the visitor economy.
Janet said:
“We are blessed in Wales to have some of the most breath-taking landscape, fascinating historical monuments, and best accommodation in the UK. The constituency of Aberconwy alone boasts an extensive list of major global attractions that could easily entertain a holidaymaker for weeks on end.
“Given the obvious attraction of Wales to holidaymakers, and the fact that the platform was set for our country to see increased visitors in 2017 with North Wales having been named as one of the top ten regions in the world to visit last year, the 1.77 million reduction in the number of overnight visits by GB residents choosing to holiday here is alarming.
“Clearly, the Welsh Government’s marketing strategy through Visit Wales is not effective. As I have said before, it is time for the Welsh Government to recognise its limitations and allow an industry-led approach to the visitor economy.
“Not for one moment am I going to be convinced that the Welsh Government is better suited than the people involved daily in the tourist industry to lead the promotion of Wales and a strategy to encourage holidaymakers to stay here”.
ENDS
Table
Overnight visits by GB residents choosing to holiday in Wales
Notes
