Area 'will be tourism hotspot'

Eric Baxter • Published 2 Aug 2010 14:00

A NATIONAL tourism expert says Inverclyde is set to become a hotspot for visitors from around the globe.

Annique Armstrong, regional officer of national tourism body VisitScotland, said cruise ship visits and next year's Tall Ships Race are putting Inverclyde firmly on the map.

She recently visited the area to discuss tourism prospects with Inverclyde MP David Cairns and Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil.

Ms Armstrong said it was a valuable chance to discuss how Inverclyde can take advantage of VisitScotland's marketing campaigns and the groundwork they have been doing to support tourism in the area through their work with partners and funding awards for Sail Scotland, Gourock Highland Games and St Andrew's Day celebrations.

She said: "The potential to grow Inverclyde's economy through tourism is gathering pace, particularly through the opportunity that comes with the cruise market and Tall Ships next year.

"As well as attracting thousands of visitors, these put Inverclyde, its businesses and its people in a spotlight that will be vital for repeat visits in the years ahead.

"Tourism really is everyone's business."

Mr Cairns and Mr McNeil said tourism is becoming increasingly important to Inverclyde, with 31 cruise ships and 51,000 passengers docking in Greenock this year. The 2011 Tall Ships race will also see the influx of tens of thousands of visitors to Inverclyde over a four-day period.

Mr Cairns said: "Inverclyde has some great scenery, and the regeneration going on at the Waterfront will add to our tourist attractions.

"We have good transport links to Glasgow Airport, and the Gourock and Wemyss Bay ferries provide gateways to the Highlands. I want to ensure we make the most of what we have, and that VisitScotland see Inverclyde as an important tourist destination."

Mr McNeil added: "I look forward to working with VisitScotland and their partners to ensure the Tall Ships is as successful as it has been in the past."

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This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 02 Aug 10

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