Written question WQ94250

Our ambition is to grow tourism for the good of Wales. We want our sector to help stimulate prosperity in local communities and economic growth that delivers benefits for people and places. One of the priorities within the north Wales regional economic framework is The Experience Economy, tourism plays a significant part in this, supports local jobs, towns and communities.

Future Wales, our National Development Plan for Wales, identifies Prestatyn as part of the North Wales Coastal Settlements regional growth area and states these settlements perform important functional roles within their region, including being key centres for employment, services, tourism, retail and culture.

Future Wales states that Tourism is an important sector to the economy across the North. It states that opportunities to support coastal resorts and attractions and new outdoor and active facilities should be supported. The re-development of former industrial sites across the North for adrenaline activities, including zip-wires, trampolining and surfing, demonstrate the potential to build on the region’s rich heritage and develop new attractions.

The Welsh Government is committed to exploring all viable options to ensure that the former Pontins Prestatyn site continues to contribute positively to the local and regional economy. My predecessor actively engaged with the Leader of Denbighshire County Council and his officers following the closure of the site to support those individuals affected and to seek clarity on the future proposals. This has included a joint meeting with the CFO of Britannia Jinky Jersey Ltd. My officials remain in contact with the council and we stand ready to support them in securing a productive economic future for the site.