John Penrose MP the Government Minister for Tourism and Heritage is to visit the Island next Tuesday following an invitation made by Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP. The visit forms part of a wider regional tour that takes the Minister to Tourism destinations across the country
Mr Penrose will be visiting Osborne House, a leading tourism destination on the island. His visit will include discussions on the options English Heritage are considering for the former convalescent home. Any change of use would require a change of legislation so he is keen to hear their plans. Mr Penrose and Mr Turner have agreed with English Heritage that there should be an opportunity for local people to have a say before anything is finalised so there is to be a public meeting when Islanders will be able to have a real input into the process. Details of the meeting will be announced shortly.
Mr Penrose has also agreed to speak at a meeting for any Island tourism business which will be held next Tuesday afternoon. At the time of writing the details are still being finalised but it has been agreed that it will be held in the Bay area following a visit by the Minister to Sandown Zoo. Any tourism business who would like to attend the meeting should register their interest with Andrew Turner’s office by telephoning 530808 or by e-mail to mail@islandmp.com.
Mr Turner said:
‘‘The Island is very reliant on tourism so I am delighted that the Minister took up my offer to visit the Island and meet local businesses. He is well aware of the issues that face many of Britain’s seaside resorts but of course we are unique in that we are also reliant on the ferry services.
“I am particularly pleased he has agreed to address a meeting that will include any tourism business – he will be able to hear the views and concerns of people who run a small bed-and-breakfast, as well as the larger operators. These are very difficult times and public funding is very constrained. We need a Government that sets policies that will enable us to help ourselves. The Minister will be able to discuss with Island businesses how the Government plans to support tourism businesses in doing that.”
END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808
