Mid Wales will need‘robust’tourism sector in the future

MID Wales will need a robust tourism sector as the region bounces back from the Covid-19 virus pandemic, says the chief executive of an organisation representing more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses.

MWT Cymru, which has members in Powys, Ceredigion and South Gwynedd, has been busier than ever since the pandemic lockdown restrictions began in March.

Chief executive Val Hawkins says the company is supporting members remotely and has assisted many of them to apply for grants.

“When we emerge from this crisis, Mid Wales is going to need a robust tourism sector to support the country’s economic recovery,” she said.

“The total economic impact of tourism on the Powys economy is £864.5 million a year, supporting 11,662 jobs and attracting around 4.69 million visitors.

“In Ceredigion, tourism contributes around £331 million annually to the economy, supports 5,400 jobs and attracts more than 2.73 million visitors.

“The lockdown restrictions have had a massive impact on Mid Wales tourism and hospitality businesses, as the vast majority have been completely closed since the start of this crisis.”

She added: “On a brighter note, many members are reporting that they are already receiving enquiries for later in the year and there are waiting lists of people wishing to buy caravans on some holiday parks.

“There is definitely pent up demand as people are planning to staycation in Mid Wales.

“We and our members look forward to welcoming visitors back to Mid Wales but only when the time is right and with the support of friends and neighbours in the local community.

“It’s important that our businesses and communities have plans in place for when the restrictions are lifted.

“Our members take public security and safety seriously and will take all the necessary measures to keep our businesses, employees, visitors and communities safe.”