Welsh Conservatives this morning pledged to support the promotion and regeneration of Wales’ seaside towns.
A Welsh Conservative Government would develop a strategy for seaside towns, which would give partnerships in seaside towns the opportunity to bid for status as an Enterprise Zone, commit to renovating public amenities and encourage growth of small tourist operators.
Welsh Conservative candidates Andrew RT Davies (South Wales Central) and Angela Jones-Evans (Vale of Glamorgan) made the commitment on Barry Island with Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns.
The Party is also committed to abolishing business rates for small businesses which will be of particular benefit to seaside towns which depend on small businesses in the tourist industry.
Welsh Conservatives have a strong record of standing up for small tourist operators, having campaigned for the Labour-led Assembly Government to support small tourism businesses with extra business rates relief.
Andrew RT Davies (pictured) said, “Many seaside towns in Wales are not reaching their full tourism potential, because they are not receiving the support they need.
“Tourism is a major tool in the regeneration of seaside towns through encouraging growth of small businesses, investing in amenities and effective marketing.
“We need a clear strategy to support towns all around Wales’ beautiful coastlines to help bring in tourists and make Wales a more prosperous nation.”
Angela Jones-Evans said, “Labour has let down our seaside resorts by failing to support small businesses which are dependent on tourism.
“We need to support small businesses in potential tourist areas by developing a competitive business rates regime, which would also encourage business start-ups.
“In 2009 in Wales we saw a net loss of businesses as more closed their doors than were established.
“By supporting small businesses, marketing the appeal of our tourist attractions and regenerating facilities, we can raise prosperity levels and bring prosperity to disadvantaged communities.”
