<p>The Tourism Investment Support Scheme</p>

Part of 1. 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure – in the Senedd at 2:08 pm on 9 November 2016.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 2:08, 9 November 2016

I can confirm the latter. In fact, I’ll write to Members with an update on the tourism investment support scheme, because the criteria for support were changed. I think I’ve highlighted this in a previous session here in Plenary, or in a committee, but the criteria changed so that there was a minimum of 30 per cent repayment allocated within the award process.

In terms of Ruthin Castle Hotel, I think, first of all, it’s essential that Members do not talk down that particular hotel, because it is still open, it’s operating very successfully and it provides employment opportunities for many people. I would not wish Members in this Chamber to convey the impression that Ruthin Castle Hotel has closed or that it is in trouble. Indeed, my officials met with the new owners back in April of this year to discuss the expansion plans that the hotel has. The hotel has also undergone change insofar as separating some of the assets that have a greater liability are concerned, so there is now a trust that’s been established to look after parts of the historic environment that the castle includes. In terms of that specific case, I’m happy to write to Members with a full account of what happened and the reason why the project encountered problems. In terms of that project, yes, only approximately £5,000 was recovered, but the hotel is still operating. It is still employing people and it is retaining four-star standard.

I’ll happily update Members in terms of the changes to TISS, and I’ll also provide a more detailed account of what happened with Ruthin Castle Hotel and the due diligence that it was subject to. I can confirm that, as part of the TISS programme for 2017, there will be two major attractions that will be delivered: one in the north that will be an alpine coaster, and one in the south, in Pembrokeshire, which will be a wakeboard park, which will be a key feature of 2018’s Year of the Sea.