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Question from: County Councillor Elwyn Vaughan Subject: Welsh heritage and cultural tourism
Question:
A great deal of attention has been focussed in recent days about the Royal family, heritage and traditions.
Here in Powys we have a proud history and rich heritage from the time of LLywelyn, Glyndwr and the Princes of Powys. However, what many have noticed in recent days is the lack of publicity, respect and attention shown to this rich history. Hardly any attempt is made of it in relation to tourism or educationally. Specific criticism has been voiced by visitors to Sycharth near LLansilin about the condition of the important historical site.
In view of these public criticisms, the missed economic opportunities, and missed cultural tourism, what actions has Powys taken to rectify this situation and what positive, decisive action will you be taking in the coming months.
Minutes: Response by the Cabinet Member:
I thank the member for Glantwymyn for his question, and fully agree with him that we do indeed have a rich historic and cultural heritage in Powys, and this is something we should be proud to promote and celebrate across a range of Council services.
The Council’s Economic Development team prioritises tourism development and marketing across the County and works to promote a range of visitor assets throughout the County both online and on visitor facing social media channels. Usually, 16th September is celebrated annually as Owain Glyndwr day on our tourism social media channels, which also highlight any local events happening in the County. However, this year, due to death of the late Queen Elizabeth II, all Council services were instructed to withdraw all non-business critical communication on social media during the period of national mourning.
Specific criticisms voiced by visitors to Sycharth, the ancient castle and birthplace of Owain Glyndwr near Llansilin in north Powys, have not to my knowledge been shared with Powys County Council. As the site is under the care of CADW as a historically important ancient monument in Wales, any complaints about the condition of Sycharth should have been raised directly with CADW and are for them to respond to. I am aware that the site itself, although registered with CADW, is located within the grounds of the private Llangedwyn estate, and it is therefore the owners of the estate who are responsible for upkeep of the wider site. CADW have recently stated that they intend to revisit the site works and interpretation that were last updated in 2010/11 and will be working with the estate owner to make improvements to the car park and access routes to the castle site.
Tourism and Heritage should be very much part of tourism in Powys, and whether it be the industrial pioneers of Newtown or the Princes of Powys we will play our part in supporting these developments.
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