The Tourism Industry Fights Back

Key players in the South West's tourism industry have agreed to form a partnership consortium which will carry forward some of the activities that would otherwise be lost when South West Tourism closes at the end of March 2011.

Key industry players offered their unanimous support for the new consortium and work will now begin to formalise the arrangements and plan the continued delivery of key projects such as market research services and high-profile consumer and industry websites.   The approach is needed now, more than ever, following the recent announcement of Yorkshire Tourism's continued multi-million pound funding.

The overriding principle of the emerging consortium is to support the tourism industry to improve the visitor experience in a cost effective and sustainable manner.  This will mean a shared voice for the tourism industry; a clear direction for the sustainable and balanced development of the visitor economy; and the collection of data and intelligence to underpin the competitive performance of the industry.  Importantly, the consortium aims to safeguard the intellectual property built up since the tourist board was formed over 40 years ago. 

The industry group were also optimistic that appropriate business models will be determined for those activities that are not self-financing but are highly valued by the industry.

Mark Smith, Chair the SW DMO Forum, and from Bournemouth DMO: "This marks very good progress for the critical process of planning a smooth transition for the South West region.  The good news is that there will be a regional partnership and that decades of good work on issues such as research, training and sustainability will not be lost.  There remains a great deal of work to be completed over the coming weeks, but I am optimistic that our stakeholders will continue to work together to support this industry that is so vital for the economy in the South West"

SWT Chairman, Alistair Handyside: ‘Whilst I am deeply saddened at the prospect of the imminent closure of South West Tourism, I am truly inspired by the hard work and focus of the industry and in the fact that they are rallying together to ensure continuity.  We are stronger together than apart and this approach will enable the South West to maintain its profile and prestige as a leading tourist destination.  I would like to thank the industry for their support at this time, and the team at SWT for their continued commitment at what is a very difficult time for them all - both professionally and personally'

Tourism Consortium Management Group: Andy Jasper (Eden Project), Christine Marshall (South West Food and Drink), Duncan Currall (Visit Devon), Jeremy Pope (Destination Dorset), Mark Smith (Chair of SW DMO forum), Mary Lynch (Bath Tourism Plus), Michael Smith (Venus Café), Leslie Watson (Sustainability South West) and Alistair Handyside (Chair of SW Excellence Awards)

Date added: Thursday 3rd February 2011
Latest updated: Thursday 8th March 2012