Village reopens to tourists with aid of bank loan

PORTMEIRION has fully reopened to holidaymakers with the backing of a seven-figure loan from HSBC.

The iconic holiday village and resort in north Wales secured the funding through the bank’s Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).

The Italian renaissance-style village, near Porthmadog, became world famous in the 1960s when it provided the backdrop for the cult classic TV series The Prisoner.

The village was forced to close to day-trippers and holidaymakers following the Covid-19 outbreak but has now fully reopened its two hotels, 13 self-catering holiday cottages and on-site restaurants.

Overnight guests form a significant part of Portmeirion’s revenue, and since July 6, as per guidance from the Welsh Government, only day-trippers were allowed to visit the famous site.

The funding from HSBC UK ensures that the village can cover its substantial fixed costs throughout the year and protect the future of its workforce following the disruption of its usually busy spring and early-summer period. Portmeirion implemented the government’s furlough scheme for 99% of its 239 employees, with the vast majority now back at work.

Robin Llywelyn, managing director of Portmeirion, said: “Thanks to HSBC UK’s support, we were able to ensure Portmeirion was ready to open for business as soon as it was safe to do so.

“The funding has secured the future of the resort and ensured that our employees have been taken care of while the furlough scheme is in place.

“We take pride in Portmeirion’s