- 17/04/2014
- Posted by: Ken Skates MS
- Category: News
Assembly Member Ken Skates is urging companies in his constituency to apply for a grant aimed at boosting tourism in Clwyd South.
Labour AM Mr Skates recently attended the public meeting Tourism for Cefn Mawr, which was held to encourage firms based in and around the World Heritage Site to come up with ideas to grow the local economy.
“Thousands of visitors come to the World Heritage Site every year, but most don’t stay in the area or spend much of their money here,” said Mr Skates.
“Wrexham Council’s business team has grant funding available for companies and social enterprises that are looking to develop tourism-related activities. They can offer up to £5,000, which could be a great help to anyone with a great idea but who is struggling with the finance to develop it.”
The grants are awarded on a match-funding basis, meaning the organisation would need to be willing to invest the same amount it is requesting from the council.
Mr Skates added: “The project covers more than 20 council wards, the vast majority of which are in Clwyd South and include Bronington; Brymbo; Cefn Mawr; the Ceiriog Valley; Chirk; Coedpoeth; Minera; Overton; Penycae and Ruabon.
“I’m sure there are many businesses and social enterprises in Clwyd South which could benefit from this excellent scheme, which aims to enhance the collective tourism offer of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, the World Heritage Site and our region as a whole.
“Attracting more visitors to the area and improving what’s on offer to them when they’re here could provide the local economy with a real shot in the arm for the future.”
The grant scheme is being managed by the council on behalf of Wrexham Tourism Forum, and is funded by the European Union and the Welsh Government’s Cynefin initiative, which aims to bring together and improve local communities.
Anyone interested can email [email protected] or call 01978 667000.
