Black: Masterplan
Not Reaching Potential for Rathlin
Speaking during a
canvass visit to Rathlin on Sunday SDLP
“Increases in visitor
numbers to Rathlin will be an acid test for the
success of the Tourism Masterplan and while
improvements are being registered we don’t yet see all the benefits promised
when the plan was launched with so much fanfare three years ago.
“The people on Rathlin themselves have been extremely active in working to
develop the island and to ensure that visitors have a worthwhile experience
when they come whether on a day long visit, visit of several days or a visit of several weeks.
“As a councillor from
the Glens I recognise the importance of tourism interests along the North coast
working together while also promoting their own particular areas. The whole of
the North coast – the Glens, the causeway as well as Rathlin
have so much to offer that we must work together to encourage visitors to stay
longer and enjoy the unique experience the area offers.
“I want to see many
different kinds of activities and events developed taking advantage of the sea,
the countryside and what our towns and villages have to offer by way of
entertainment.
“As an Assembly member
I shall be working hard with the Rathlin Community
Association and with all of the other groups involved in tourism to make the
North coast a ‘must visit’ tourist attraction.”