South Down Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard has met with Stephen Bill, Regional Manager Tourism NI and Mark Mohan, Tourism Initiatives Manager, of Newry Mourne and Down District Council as part of a series of engagements organised by Mr Hazzard focussing on tourism development in South Down.
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Mark Mohan, Newry Mourne and Down District Council Tourism Initiatives Manager, South Down MLA Chris Hazzard, and Stephen Bill, Tourism NI Regional Manager pictured outside the St Patrick Centre.[/caption]
Following the meeting, Mr Hazzard said that he is satisfied that “a strategy is being developed directed towards the unrealised potential of tourism in Co. Down.”
He said: “There have been many improvements in the last decade, but they need to be built upon. While 700 coaches per year visit the St.Patrick’s Centre in Downpatrick, few stay overnight. 85% of visitors to County Down are day-trippers. This suggests there is a definite need for more accommodation providers in the area.
“I am also happy that there is to be a much greater focus on developing links with Fáilte Ireland and the east coast, which benefits from huge visitor numbers.
“The ferry crossing and the proposed bridge at Narrow Water would both contribute to opening up the entire South Down area for tourism and business. The creation of these transport links would benefit the entire region, North and South, in terms of economic regeneration.”
“I therefore look forward to the Tourism NI consultation paper, which is soon to be circulated, proposing a strategy in line with the specific needs of South Down.”
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