Bates condemns Council closure of Machynlleth Tourist Information Centre

12.00.00am GMT Wed 18th Feb 2009

Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has condemned the proposed closure of Machynlleth Tourist Information Centre by Powys Council on March 31st and has written to the Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones and the Chief Executive of Powys Council urging them to do all possible to secure the future of this vital facility.

Commenting, Welsh Lib Dem Mick Bates stated:

"I am deeply disappointed to learn of the decision by Powys County Council to close the Tourist Information Centre in Machynlleth at the end of March, particularly when rent has been paid on this premises through until the summer. This clearly demonstrates how out of touch the council are with the needs of Machynlleth.

"The closure of this facility will not only lead to the loss of three jobs within Machynlleth Tourist Information Centre itself, but will also impact on surrounding businesses at a time when promotion of our local attractions in Wales is most crucial if we are to protect and support our local businesses through the current economic crisis.

"Machynlleth and the surrounding area have a tremendous amount to offer visitors in terms of local attractions, accommodation and facilities. Tourism is of great importance to the local economy, particularly in rural Wales where the majority of income comes from the tourism and farming industries.

"Tourist Information Centres play a significant role in furthering the economic success of an area, providing valuable information on local attractions, local accommodation and public transport. I do not believe that online promotion is sufficient - when visiting new places it is common practice for tourists to locate the local tourist information centre for advice and information on local amenities and it is a particularly useful facility for visitors from overseas who may not be familiar with the local area.

"I am aware of no consultation with the local community on alternative options for ensuring the continuance of the service provided by Machynlleth Tourist Information centre despite great depth of feeling within the community on this issue. I have written to Mark Kerr and the Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones urging them to do all possible to secure the future of this facility, which plays such a vital role in ensuring the economic success of the town and local area in Machynlleth and in the promotion of our tourism industry in Mid Wales."

Notes:

Together TIC's in Wales welcome more than 3.5million visitors a year and in 2007 more than 40,000 bed nights were booked through the bed booking service offered at each Tourist Information Centre.

End/Diwedd