The Welsh Minister for Economy, Transport and Science has been pressed by a local AM to urgently bring forward the Government’s new policy for tourism signs in Wales, so that Mid Wales businesses can attract more tourists this summer.
Montgomeryshire Assembly Member, Russell George, took the opportunity to raise the issue with Mrs Edwina Hart, who has responsibility for tourism, during weekly questions to Welsh Minister’s (3 July). Mr George said that there were a number of companies in Montgomeryshire that have been accredited by VisitWales to have a brown sign to publicise their business but they were having to wait because Government policy had yet to be finalised. He then asked Mrs Hart when the policy would be forthcoming.
In response, Mrs Hart said that she would be issuing a statement before the National Assembly breaks for summer recess on 19th July.
Commenting, Mr George said:
"While I welcome the Minister’s response, I am concerned that this policy will not be implemented in time for businesses to capitalise on tourists visiting Mid Wales this summer.
"All the towns in Montgomeryshire desperately want to improve their tourism signage to attract new business, particularly those just off the main trunk road network.
"We urgently need this policy in place because it will have an impact on attracting tourists to spend more time and money at attractions in Mid Wales."