Tourist operators still brimming with confidence after the vote to leave the European Union

Two-in-three Welsh tourism businesses say Brexit has had no impact on their business, with around 80% telling a Welsh Government survey that this summer has been at least as busy as 2015’s record-breaking year. 

Some businesses have reported an increase in staycations as a result of Brexit, with one stating: “We have seen an increase in overseas visitors. This may be the result of Brexit and the weaker pound”.

Meanwhile, the report also notes that an increase in tourism across the UK as a whole could mean that Wales will need to increase its competitiveness in order for the Welsh economy to share in that growth.

Commenting on the survey, which can be found in full HERE, the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies, said:

“It’s great to see that tourist operators are still brimming with confidence after the vote to leave the European Union. In fact this survey suggests that operators have seen little or no effect on their business, which may come as a disappointment to the prophets of doom and gloom.

“What we have seen, however, is a marked increase in staycations since the referendum, and we want to capitalise on that success by ensuring that Wales retains a competitive edge within the UK market.

“In addition, the Welsh Government must now use all of the devolved levers at its disposal on essential infrastructure projects, including a swift resolution to the M4 Relief Road, working with the UK Government on cross border rail franchises and ensuring that North Wales has a transport network to be proud of.

“This would improve access to Wales and make it an even more attractive destination for domestic and international tourism.”