EXTRA care is being taken to prepare Carmarthenshire for the return of tourists when lockdown restrictions in Wales ease.

Carmarthenshire County Council is working with local communities and businesses in the tourism industry to prepare for a phased return of visitors and guests when Welsh Government gives the go-ahead – further announcements are expected in the next few weeks.

In preparation, accommodation providers and visitor attractions are being supported to get ready for a phased re-opening with extra measures being put in place to reassure businesses, communities, staff and visitors.

Practical advice, resources and support with signage and marketing is being made available.

Key to the return of the tourism industry is providing confidence and reassurance to local communities that extra care has been taken to protect them as visitors return.

People will be asked to ‘respect, protect and enjoy’ Carmarthenshire whilst supporting businesses close to where they are staying.

Carmarthenshire’s tourism and hospitality sector plays a vital role in the county’s economy, contributing almost half a billion pound every year as visitors flock to enjoy our unique blend of coast and countryside.

Cllr Peter Hughes Griffiths, Executive Board Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism, said: “Our tourism industry has suffered badly during lockdown, and we know how important it is to local businesses that they can start to re-open their doors and resume trading.

“We welcome the new guidance which allows our tourism businesses to begin welcoming visitors once more and are doing everything possible to support them to do that safely whilst protecting our communities.

“We have to take a cautious approach to this whilst providing the necessary support and reassurance.

“We love welcoming people to Carmarthenshire – we have so much to offer – and it is so vitally important that we get the balance right.”

Tourism providers not already signed up to receive the council’s Discover Carmarthenshire newsletters, which offer updates, resources and more, are encouraged to get in touch by emailing tourism@carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Visit www.discovercarmarthenshire.com for a wealth of local information including accommodation listings, visitor attractions, walking and cycling tours and much more.