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At a Ceredigion Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday 03 September 2024, the Cabinet agreed to support the undertaking of a consultation process on the proposals for charging for parking along parts of Aberystwyth promenade.
The scheme is designed to better manage parking demand within Aberystwyth and encourage use of the Council’s off-street car parks for parking demand that would be more appropriately met through off-street car park provision. This will be achieved by a balance of adjusting existing parking policy in respect of the location, availability and relative cost of parking between on street and off-street provision through reduced cost seasonal off-street options. The introduction of on-street parking charges will sustain the costs of operation of the proposed scheme. Should any surplus income be achieved, it would be used to support funding of other essential public services provided by Ceredigion County Council which fall within the scope of what is permitted under Section 55 of the RTRA 1984. It is considered that sufficient spare parking capacity exists within Ceredigion County Council and private off-street car parks (including those to be developed) and other regulated on street locations and the displacement of parking is therefore not anticipated as a potential negative outcome of this scheme. Some of the benefits from the scheme are:
Blue Badge holders would be exempt from charges and any time restrictions when parking in a charged for space subject to them displaying their Blue Badge in the prescribed manner. This exemption already applies in respect of limited waiting bays and therefore there would be no effective change or detrimental impact from the scheme in relation to on-street parking for blue badge holders. Councillor Keith Henson, Ceredigion’s Cabinet Member responsible for Highways, said: “Aberystwyth promenade is a valuable location at the centre of the town. The purpose of the scheme is to create a turnover of traffic to enable more cars to come and go without negatively affecting the county's economy. Soon, the consultation process on the proposals put forward will begin so please make sure you respond to the consultation.” A consultation process on the proposals put forward will commence shortly and as part of this there will be an opportunity for stakeholders, including residents, businesses/staff, and visitors to share their views. Further details will be provided in due course. Findings of the consultation will be reported to Cabinet prior to any decision in relation to the implementation of the proposal.
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The categories are: Best Hotel, Best B&B, Best Guest Accommodation, Restaurant with Rooms or Inn, Best Self Catering, Best Camping or Touring Park, Best Holiday Park or Holiday Home Park, Best Glamping / Quirky Accommodation, Best Activity, Experience or Tour, Best Visitor Attraction, Best Event, Best Place to Eat or Drink, Best Restaurant, Best Third Sector Award, Best Dog Friendly Business and Rising Star. The Rising Star category allows public nominations and is open to entrepreneurial, professional and business talents of any age making significant strides in the industry. All other categories require direct entries from businesses or organisations. Winners and finalists from the majority of categories will have the opportunity to represent Mid Wales at the Wales National Tourism Awards in spring 2025. The category finalists will be announced in November. Exclusive headline and category sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses a chance to elevate their profile and demonstrate their support for the Mid Wales tourism sector. The awards are organised by MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism), with backing from the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and Visit Wales, the Welsh Government’s tourism team. A not-for-profit social enterprise, MWT Cymru represents and supports over 550 tourism businesses and organisations across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia. Steve Hughson, Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum chair, said: “These awards present an exciting opportunity to showcase the very best of what Mid Wales has to offer to a wider audience. They also offer a chance to celebrate excellence and innovation within the tourism, leisure and hospitality sector, the second largest employer in Mid Wales.” MWT Cymru’s chairman, Rowland Rees-Evans, said: “The Mid Wales Tourism Awards honour businesses, organisations and individuals who have shown exceptional achievement and dedication to the tourism industry. “This is our chance to promote the unique attractions and businesses that make Mid Wales a remarkable destination. I encourage everyone in the sector to participate, promote, or sponsor.” Tourism leaders in Mid Wales are calling for an urgent meeting with Deputy First Minister Huw Iranca-Davies and regional Members of the Senedd and MPs to discuss way of saving three Natural Resources Wales (NRW) visitor centres.
The NRW is planning to close the popular visitor centres at Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Ynyslas near Aberystwyth, and Coed y Brenin near Dolgellau with the loss of around 260 jobs to address a £13 million budget shortfall. Now Zoe Hawkins, chief executive of MWT Cymru, the region's largest independent tourism organisation representing over 550 businesses, is joining forces with Steve Hughson, Mid Wales Tourism Forum chairman and Suzy Davies, Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA) chairman, to call for an urgent meeting with politicians and the NRW. They are seeking a solution to save the visitor centres, whether it requires a U-turn by the NRW, extra funding from the Welsh Government or finding different operators to keep the doors open. They insist that the centres must remain open until a solution is found. The Deputy First Minister is being invited because the NRW is in his portfolio as Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, together with Ken Skates, Minister for North Wales. Also being invited are Mabon ap Gwynfor and Liz Saville-Roberts, MS and MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, respectively, Elin Jones and Ben Lake, MS and MP for Ceredigion, respectively, Clare Pilman, NRW chief executive and Eifion Evans and Dafydd Gibbard, chief executives of Ceredigion and Gwynedd County Councils, respectively. Tourism is the second largest employer in Mid Wales, playing a vital role in supporting towns, communities and families in Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia). MWT Cymru members have expressed their concerns, describing the decision to close the visitor centres, which attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, as another blow to the rural economy. “Mid Wales is a rural area with a delicate economy and decisions like this can have far-reaching consequences,” said Miss Hawkins. “It’s essential that NRW carefully considers the impact on our communities and finds new management partners to secure the future of these centres. “We understand the need for cost-cutting, but it’s crucial that these decisions are made with full consideration of their impact on our region. Our communities rely on the tourism that these centres generate and closing them without a clear plan for the future is deeply concerning. “There is a need for thoughtful decision-making that takes account of the specific needs and vulnerabilities of rural areas like Mid Wales.” Mr Hughson added: “Whilst I understand the business need for efficiency, I am surprised, particularly in the case of Bwlch Nant yr Arian, that it is a loss-making enterprise, as it always seems very busy and a great attraction for Mid Wales. “The wider community benefits of employment in a rural area and the contribution these visitor centres make to the tourism sector and wider economy throughout the year - not just during peak season - must not be overlooked. “Importantly, if the decision is to close, I would ask NRW to keep the centres open until a new owner is found, as business continuity is key. Once closed, we could lose this valuable asset forever.” Mrs Davies said the WTA is urgently seeking information about visitor numbers at the three centres and the running costs. “The NRW must not make a final decision about the future of these centres until we get all these facts and explore all options for keeping them open,” she insisted.  The much-anticipated National Tourism Awards for Wales will return in Spring 2025. Hosted by Visit Wales they celebrate the best of the tourism industry throughout the country.
To enter you must apply through your county/regional tourism awards. Only winners of the 2024 Regional Awards will be considered for the National Tourism Awards for Wales in March 2025. Please note the extended application deadlines quoted below. Jack Sargeant MS, Minister for Social Partnership has said: “We are fortunate to be blessed with a variety of outstanding tourism businesses in Wales. “Whilst I appreciate that most will be busy welcoming visitors at present, a reminder too not to forget putting yourselves forward for the regional tourism awards, the first step in gaining recognition at the National Awards. Make sure you and your area get the recognition you deserve for what you do and how you do it.” The categories for the National Tourism Awards 2025 are:
South West Wales:
Mid Wales:
North Wales:
Zoe Hawkins – region’s MPs have key role to play in thriving tourism sector. Zoe Hawkins, from Machynlleth-based MWT Cymru, said: “We wish them the best of luck in their roles and eagerly anticipate collaborating with them to bolster tourism and support our rural communities in Mid Wales. “Tourism in Mid Wales is more than just an industry; it’s a way of life that involves real people and real families who live, work and raise their families in our communities. “The unique landscapes, rich culture and authenticity of Mid Wales are the cornerstones of our tourism sector. By working closely with our new and re-elected representatives, we aim to ensure that our tourism businesses, sector and communities not only survive but thrive. “Effective collaboration between the UK and Welsh Governments and the tourism industry is crucial for achieving these ambitious goals. By fostering strong partnerships and engaging closely with local communities, we can create a vibrant and resilient tourism sector that benefits everyone. “Tourism creates jobs and drives economic growth, making it a vital component of our local economies.” Looking to the future, she added: “As we embark on this journey with our new and re-elected UK Government representatives, we are confident that by working together we can support a thriving tourism industry that supports our rural communities and showcases the best of Mid Wales to the world. “We look forward to the positive impact of our collaborative efforts and the continued success of our tourism sector.”  Mid Wales is set to celebrate its thriving tourism industry as entries open for the Mid Wales Tourism Awards 2024-25, the first since the Covid pandemic. The awards aim to recognise and showcase the region’s exceptional tourism businesses, organisations, and individuals who drive the sector forward.
With 15 categories available for entry, businesses and individuals have until midnight on August 18 2024 to submit their applications through the awards website, www.midwalestourismawards.co.uk The categories include:
Winners and finalists will have the opportunity to represent Mid Wales at the Wales National Tourism Awards in Spring 2025. The announcement of category finalists will take place in November with winners revealed at a black-tie awards ceremony. Exclusive headline and category sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses a chance to elevate their profile and demonstrate their support for the tourism sector in Mid Wales. The awards are organised by Mid Wales Tourism, known as MWT Cymru, with backing from the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and Visit Wales, the Welsh Government’s tourism team. MWT Cymru, a not-for-profit social enterprise, represents and supports over 550 tourism businesses and organisations across Powys, Ceredigion, and Southern Snowdonia. Steve Hughson, Chair of the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, highlighted the importance of the awards: “These awards present an exciting opportunity to showcase the very best of what Mid Wales has to offer to a wider audience and a chance to celebrate excellence and innovation within the tourism, leisure and hospitality sector – the second largest employer in Mid Wales.” MWT Cymru’s Chairman, Rowland Rees-Evans, emphasised the significance of the awards: “The Mid Wales Tourism Awards honour businesses, organisations, and individuals who have shown exceptional achievement and dedication to the tourism industry. This is our chance to promote the unique attractions and businesses that make Mid Wales a remarkable destination. I encourage everyone in the sector to participate, promote, or sponsor.” Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru’s Chief Executive, added: “The Mid Wales Tourism Awards 2024-25 mark the first post-Covid awards, fittingly launched last week to coincided with Wales Tourism Week (July 15 - 21), an industry led opportunity to showcase the quality of Welsh tourism. The awards are a vital opportunity to champion the resilience and strength of our sector and those delivering outstanding customer service. We look forward to receiving applications.” For more details and to enter, visit www.midwalestourismawards.co.uk The much-anticipated National Tourism Awards for Wales will return in Spring 2025. Hosted by Visit Wales they celebrate the best of the tourism industry throughout the country.
How to enter: winners of the Regional Awards in 2024 will go through to the National (Wales) Awards in March 2025 - so you will need to apply through your county/regional tourism awards to be considered. The categories for the National Tourism Awards 2025 are:
South West Wales:
Go North Wales Awards – The Go North Wales Awards will go live on the 1 August and the closing date for entries will be 7 October 2024.
The Minister heard about the work being undertaken in Mid Wales that is supported through UK Government funding, in particular:
Mid Wales Growth Deal: a long-term investment of £110m from UK and Welsh Governments that leverages significant additional investment. The Minister received updates on both the Sites & Premises and Digital Programmes as well as the nine projects that are currently progressing for funding. UK Shared Prosperity Fund: a £42.4m investment in Mid Wales supporting communities and businesses to prosper and grow. The Minister received updates on current progress and timescales. There was also an opportunity to discuss the work ongoing in Mid Wales around Energy, Transport and Skills – and the importance of joint partnership working across Government and economic sectors in a rural economy such as that of Mid Wales, where collaboration is essential to address the unique challenges and leverage the region's strengths for sustainable development and growth. In a joint statement, Councillor James Gibson-Watt and Councillor Bryan Davies said, “We were pleased to meet the new Minister today and talk about how we unlock the economic potential of Mid Wales. We have a strategy and vision for achieving growth with our key partners. It is vitally important that we continue to work hand in glove with both the UK and Welsh Government to foster collaboration between public and private sectors, working as one team – to boost productivity and drive long-term and sustainable economic growth.” Dame Nia Griffith DBE MP also highlighted the importance of partnership working and the work ongoing in the region. She said: “I was delighted to meet key individuals involved with the Mid Wales Growth Deal. The UK Government is committed to economic growth and we can only do this by working in partnerships, exemplified by the work being undertaken here. By investing in key infrastructure and fostering these partnerships between government and the private sector, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous future for Mid Wales.” The Royal Welsh Show provided a fitting backdrop for this important discussion, underscoring the vital connection between developments in several economic sectors within a rural economy. From land and agriculture, agri-tech, energy, food & tourism – there remains a strong need for sustained investment in underpinning infrastructure and skills to support the vision for Growing Mid Wales. For those interested in staying updated on the latest developments with the work of Growing Mid Wales, sign up for our monthly newsletter by emailing [email protected]  Three members of the IMI Wales team (from left) Guy Edwards, project manager, Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru chief executive and Jo Lewis business engagement officer for North Powys. MWT Cymru, the largest membership organisation for tourism businesses in Mid Wales, has launched IMI Wales, an exciting initiative to revitalise town centre shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs across Powys. The IMI Wales project utilises new Web3 technology to create a platform which gives micro businesses across Powys access to features previously attainable only by large corporations. The project brings together businesses seeking to upskill, access exclusive marketing opportunities and find new and innovative ways to thank loyal customers whilst also attracting new ones. There are two dedicated business engagement officers in both North and South Powys to work with each business, ensuring they can maximise this opportunity. Jo Lewis [email protected] covers North Powys and Helen Howarth [email protected] covers South Powys. Corporations use reward-based schemes because they know they work. IMI Wales now offers these same powerful tools to small businesses, including customer rewards systems and significant marketing support. Participating businesses receive free professional photographs for their marketing needs, dedicated support from experienced business engagement officers and the opportunity to take part in exclusive marketing campaigns. MWT Cymru leverages VisitMidWales.co.uk, which attracts more than one million unique visits each year, giving businesses significant visibility. "This initiative isn't just about discounts," explained Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru chief executive. "It's about collaboration, added value and trying something new. Our team works closely with businesses to help them determine what will work best for them, their business and their customers." IMI Wales is part of the Revitalising Mid Wales Project which has received £340,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supported by Powys County Council. The initiative will be rolled out to a minimum of six towns throughout Powys, with 12 towns already showing interest. "We understand that local reward schemes have been attempted before, often without the backing of a large-scale marketing campaign," added Zoe. "IMI Wales is different because it links towns and businesses, attracting additional customers through our extensive tourism network. We will work with any active community to ensure the success of this programme. "We urge businesses to consider the bigger picture – what’s good for your business is good for the town and the community.”. A not-for-profit tourism organisation, MWT Cymru’s activities are supported by 600 collaborating, member tourism businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia. "We want to use our skills and successful strategies from the tourism sector to support small businesses that may need that extra help," stressed Zoe. For more information about IMI Wales and how to get involved, please contact: www.imi.wales or [email protected] .  EAG chair Steve Lesbirel (centre) with Councillor Bryan Davies (left), Ceredigion County Council leader and Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council leader, during their visit to Elan Valley Visit with Caban Coch dam in the background. Elan Valley Visitor Centre near Rhayader hosted the first meeting between the Growing Mid Wales Economic Advisory Group (EAG) and leaders of Ceredigion and Powys County Councils The meeting was held to discuss the Mid Wales Growth Deal’s strategic initiatives and collaboration on advancing regional economic growth. Elan Valley Lakes Project is the first Mid Wales project advancing to the final stage of business case development to unlock growth deal funding. Representatives of Welsh Water/ Dŵr Cymru, project developers, outlined the proposals before leading a tour around the site. The £21.7 million project includes plans to redevelop and expand Elan Valley Visitor Centre overlooking Caban Coch Dam, a hub for water sports and events, new tourism accommodation, including glamping pods, upgrading footpaths and bike trails, woodland conservation management and green energy supply links from a hydro mains ring. The EAG, an independent body for Growing Mid Wales Board, comprises business leaders with expertise relevant to the region. The growth deal is a capital funding programme investing in large-scale infrastructure projects to support regional economic growth. Steve Lesbirel, EAG chair, said: “We now have a full group consisting of entrepreneurial industry leaders and we look forward together with a passion to help drive the Mid Wales economy forward. “Our group plays a key role in providing a strategic and constructive challenge to strengthen proposals and advise on new opportunities for the Growing Mid Wales Board to consider.” Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council leader and Councillor Bryan Davies, Ceredigion County Council leader, are co-chairs of Growing Mid Wales Board. “We are delighted to work closely with regional business leaders to provide a voice for their sector and share strategic and constructive responses for the Mid Wales Growth Deal,” they said. "The growth deal is entering an exciting stage of development which sees programmes and projects moving into the delivery phase. We therefore need to ensure business representatives help us to strengthen and challenge the portfolio to have maximum impact on the Mid Wales economy." For more information about EAG members visit: www.growingmid.wales/EAG . |
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