Guernsey Press

Hospitality industry is positive about tourism plan to boost visitors

GUERNSEY’S hospitality industry remains positive about the new tourism 10-point plan to boost visitors to the islands.

Published
Gunter Botzenhardt, owner of Le Nautique Restaurant. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 27091470)

Tourism growth targets have been scaled back in the new plan from 3% in the previous one to 1%, with some describing it as a step backwards. However, industry leaders view this as a more realistic target and think the Committee for Economic Development is doing a good job.

OGH general manager Andrew Chantrell said the points presented in the plan to boost tourism in the island had been what he had expected, though he was disappointed to see the visitor growth target reduced.

‘The points are similar to what they had presented at a seminar at the end of last year,’ he said.

‘But I was surprised to see the growth targets reduced to 1%.

‘If we did this as a business case it would be sent back – I believe we should push ourselves further.’

He added there were positives to take from the plan and its review of the previous plan.

‘Anything that addresses the islands’ air and sea links can only be a good thing for the hospitality industry,’ he said.

‘I think their suggestions on how to improve tourism in the islands, such as strengthening the islands’ tourism product offering, are certainly what the hospitality industry is looking for and this is something that we’ve tried to do with Heritage 75 packages for the 75th anniversary of liberation; unique packages that promote us as an island.

‘In this way I think the Victor Hugo centre idea would work to boost tourism from the US, UK and French markets.’

Hopes to improve local visitor numbers through developments such as supporting a runway extension and improvements to sea links to the islands has also been given a seal of approval by industry insiders.

Le Nautique Restaurant chef-proprietor Gunter Botzenhardt said he thought ED were doing a very good job.

‘Although I would say lowering the growth target is a step backwards, the plan shows that they know what they need to do,’ he said.

‘The highlight for us would be the push for more day trips to the island with Condor, then also with the air links promoting the Continental side of encouraging visitors to the islands.

‘Plus the recent advertising is very clever and positive.’

Managing director of Sarnia Hotels Karel Harris agreed.

‘Connectivity is key to any growth, and hope that establishing an operating agreement with Condor will provide a more resilient sea service,’ she said.

‘With sustainability becoming a significant issue to many leisure travellers, a good ferry service is imperative.

‘An improvement to our links with France could reap benefits as there is potentially a larger market there and particularly with the Victor Hugo connection there is a great desire for French visitors to come to Guernsey.’