JANET Finch-Saunders, MS for Aberconwy, has spoken of her delight at joining the celebration marking the success of the Llandudno Tourism Innovation Hub.

The £825,000 UK Government Community Renewal funded project, in partnership with Mostyn Estates, aimed to inspire, motivate and create innovation in tourism.

The project was made of three key components:

• Innovation Programme: A series of workshops, masterclasses and training opportunities;

• Retain to Innovate: Funding to retain or recruit staff, or to develop an innovative project to improve an organisation’s effectiveness;

• “Pop-up” Premises: Subsidised retail, office and/or light industrial space made available by Mostyn Estates to pilot new ventures.

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After participating in the project debrief, she said: “I am proud that the UK Conservative Government has invested hundreds of thousands in and worked hand in hand with the local tourism sector.

“As many as 160 businesses have been supported and 56 jobs safeguarded. It is great, too, that events have been held so to explore extending the tourism season.

"Many in the sector will know that this is a considerable challenge, so it is reassuring that various topics have been explored, such as building on Japanese connections, the two-season tourism product approach in Switzerland, and event management.

“From speaking to individuals who have participated in the hub, it was clear that they have enjoyed the project, so I would like to thank everyone who made it possible.”