Derry unveils ambitious tourism plans

Ambitious plans to increase tourist visitors to Derry by 8% in each of the next three years were unveiled today.

The Maiden City’s Tourism Strategy and Action Plan was launched by Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster who said it sought to enhance the tourism product on offer, while investing in new infrastructure and realising the full potential of the region’s unique historic and cultural assets.

The minister said: “Londonderry’s Tourism Strategy can make an important regional contribution to the programme for government’s tourism targets.

“These include increasing visitor numbers by 25% and visitor spend by 40%.”

Commenting on the opportunities of cross-border tourists she said: “Despite the wider economic climate, statistics for 2008 show that the number of holidaymakers from the Republic of Ireland is up by 26% compared to the same period in 2007.

“I am confident that we can build on this and encourage our closer to home markets to explore more of Northern Ireland for themselves.”

Derry City Council Mayor Gerard Diver said the strategy placed tourism as a priority economic driver that would create jobs and new opportunities for growth.

He said the 8% a year increase in tourists was achievable.

“Tourism is a key economic driver and is essential if we are to stimulate new opportunities for growth and development.

“Our in-built advantages of the river and unique location mean we are better placed to exploit the key drivers for tourism.

“Given its exceptional setting and strong assets, it is little wonder that the city and region offers such remarkable potential to expand its status as a destination city, gateway and regional hub for the North West.”

Chairman of the Ilex Urban Regeneration Company, Roy McNulty, endorsed the strategy saying: “Our city has all the ingredients which any tourism destination needs – the physical product based on our unique history, a vibrant arts and culture sector, our fabulous riverfront location and a welcoming people to ensure the visitor experience is the very best that we have to offer.”

He added: “Tourism growth will become increasingly important as an economic driver in the city’s overall regeneration programme.”