MP WELCOMES INCREASE IN GLOBAL INTEREST IN DUNDEE
Dundee East MP Stewart Hosie has welcomed the news that Dundee has been named in LonelyPlanet’s top 10 European destinations for 2018. Following the announcement tourism leaders in Dundee have predicted a huge boost for the city, with hotel managers saying that the phones have been “ringing off the hook”.
The news comes ahead of the opening of the V&A, which will open in September and will add to the ever-growing list of vibrant and exciting cultural landmarks in Dundee and is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors in the first months of its opening.
Mr Hosie met with VisitDundee Chairman, Paul Jennings, and Dundee City Development Convenor Lynne Short earlier this month to discuss the plans for the organisation and how they can work together to help boost the profile of Dundee around the globe.
Following his meeting with Mr Jennings, Mr Hosie wrote to Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, to ask what support can be given to organisations such as VisitDundee.
Commenting Stewart Hosie MP said:
“It seems like every day I am seeing new global endorsements for Dundee from the international media. Interest in our city has never been so high and there is a real buzz here because of it.”
“With the V&A opening in September, The Open returning to Carnoustie in July and big stars playing at Slessor Gardens, there is a real sense of confidence in the City. It’s important that we capture this energy and use it to promote Dundee globally for years to come.”
“It’s important that we continue to heavily promote, not just the V&A but all of the fantastic sights and attractions in Dundee and the surrounding area. People should know that this part of Scotland has a huge amount to offer.”
“I’m glad that this initiative (VisitDundee) has been set up and will seek to encourage visitors to spend time here so they can fully explore everything Dundee has to offer.”
Commenting on VisitDundee Dundee City Development Convenor and Maryfield Councillor Lynne Short said:
“All public-private partnerships are incredibly important to the city, it’s great to see that this organisation is now in existence. I’m looking forward to working with them in the future to bring more people to Dundee. The city’s regeneration has so far been fantastic however we must all work together to ensure it works for every part of Dundee, from the smallest bairn to the biggest company.”
Paul Jennings of VisitDundee said:
"VisitDundee has been created to help capture the incredible opportunity facing the city, we want to maximise the economic impact of our tourism assets for the benefit of the wider community. We hope to work across the private and public sector as promoting Dundee as a great place to visit and stay needs to be an inclusive effort."
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Notes to editors
Media enquiries contact jack@dundeesnp.org 01382 623200
