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'Time for InvestNI to meet soaring demand for local overnight stays' – Hazzard

Sinn Fein MLA Chris Hazzard has challenged Tourism Minister Jonathan Bell to build upon the success of the recent Irish Open in Newcastle by tasking InvestNI to proactively develop overnight accommodation in South Down.

Sinn Fein MLA Chris Hazzard
Sinn Fein MLA Chris Hazzard

In an exchange in the Assembly, Hazzard called on the incoming minister to implement an urgent action plan that will develop the accommodation and hospitably market throughout South Down.
Speaking to Newry Times, Hazzard said, “During the recent Irish Open we witnessed record numbers travelling to South Down.
“However, unfortunately too many visitors were forced to book accommodation elsewhere as the number of local beds falls well short of what is expected of a premier tourist destination.
“It was disappointing that so many visitors were forced to travel away from Newcastle and the surrounding area each night, with some travelling up to three hours daily to secure accommodation.
He added, “If we are to truly harness the potential legacy of the Irish Open, we must see a proactive and strategic plan to develop local tourism infrastructure across the county. Central to this is the development of our local hospitality and accommodation market.”

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