AM raises exciting years ahead for Llanelli tourism

Keith Davies AM has used a question to the Welsh Economy Minister in the Assembly this week to ask how the Welsh Government, working in collaboration with local stakeholders and the tourism industry, can advertise and market local events to maximum strength.

Over the next few years Llanelli will be a host to some large scale events and celebrations – including the Carmarthenshire Eisteddfod in 2014, and Kidwelly’scelebration of 900 years in 2015. The Local Llanelli AM attended the Llanelly House re-opening last week, with the building having undergone extensive restoration.

The Welsh Government’s Tourism Strategy aims to grow tourism earnings by 10% or more by 2020, with the new strategy focussing on areas such as ‘promoting the brand’ and ‘product development’. The Llanelli AM asked how local and national cooperation can maximise local business involvement and benefits.

Keith Davies AM said:

“Carmarthenshire’s tourism industry is worth a third of a billion pounds to the local economy, with almost three million visitors each year and over 6,000 people employed in the sector.”

“Llanelli has an exciting few years ahead in terms of tourism, and I look forward to showcasing to visitors the best of what we in Llanelli and Carmarthenshire have to offer. Llanelli’s coastal path and new East Gate Development are just a few of the reasons for visitors from Wales and further afield to return to our area.”

“Particularly in this tough economic climate, I want to ensure that we deliver the best possible opportunities for local businesses to benefit from these events. The National Eisteddfod for example attracts between 150,000-160,000 visitors, and can benefit local areas to the tune of £6-8 million.”

“I was pleased to attend the re-opening of Llanelly House last week. This is a great example of the Welsh Labour Government’s local collaboration through its grant to the Carmarthenshire Heritage Regeneration Trust to renovate the community spaces.”

Speaking in the Chamber, the Minister for Economy, Science and Transport, Edwina Hart AM, said:

“I was delighted to see the formal opening of Llanelly House last week, one of the most outstanding early Georgian buildings in Wales.”

“We have an excellent relationship with the local authority in Carmarthenshire with regard to promoting events…. Carmarthenshire is also part of the city region, which is focusing heavily on tourism within that area. I indicated to Visit Wales officials that we need to do more joint working in terms of publicising what is on offer in Wales.”