NLIS 3
December 22, 2005
(Innovation, Trade and Rural Development)
 

Towns receive regional diversification funding

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development has approved a total of $174,610 from its Regional Sectoral Diversification Fund to assist three towns with tourism-related ventures. The towns of Bay Bulls, Witless Bay and Portugal Cove South will use the funds to develop a tourism plan, make improvements to tourist attractions, and complete an interpretation centre, respectively.

"This administration is dedicated to assisting the towns of our province to build strong local economies and increase opportunities in viable sectors and industries," said Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Tourism is proving to be a developing opportunity and has been identified as a strategic growth sector for the Avalon region through the province�s Comprehensive Regional Diversification Strategy."

"I am very excited about this commitment to invest in our natural and cultural heritage and to promote the rich resources of the towns of Bay Bulls, Witless Bay and Portugal Cove South and the surrounding areas," added Tom Hedderson, Minister of Tourism, Recreation and Culture. "These communities are a showcase for our unique culture and are tremendous assets for our tourism industry."

The Town of Bay Bulls has been allocated $18,250 to retain consulting expertise to assist the Bay Bulls Tourism Development Committee develop a Tourism Destination Development and Implementation Plan. The proposed plan will provide information on economic viability, cultural heritage, educational benefits, promotional opportunities, and existing and potential human resource needs. The town anticipates new economic development and job creation as a result of the project.

"The Town of Bay Bulls has been undergoing significant growth, primarily in the tourism sector and offshore oil industry," said Deborah Maddox of the Bay Bulls Development Committee. "Fortunately, Bay Bulls is a prime location as a tourist destination, and these funds will assist us in enhancing this location for visitors."

The Town of Witless Bay will receive $59,325 to enhance the tourism potential of the community and surrounding area. The Witless Bay Tourism Development Steering Committee plans to implement site improvements to two natural attractions in the area, Lower and Upper Pond. Lower Pond is a community gathering point for events, and Upper Pond is strategically located adjacent to the Irish Loop. With thousands of visitors descending on the town every year to experience the many tourist attractions in the area, this funding will foster the development of the local tourism industry.

"These enhancements will become part of several infrastructure developments that will add to the total tourism experience within the Irish Loop," said Barbara Carey, Mayor for the Town of Witless Bay. "In particular, this funding will assist us in adding value to the Town of Witless Bay through improved green spaces."

The Town of Portugal Cove South will use $97,035 in funding to complete a regional interpretation centre in Portugal Cove South that will highlight Cape Race Lighthouse, Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve and other local natural history. It is anticipated that the proposed centre will become an anchor attraction for the southern Avalon, encourage greater visitation to the area and serve as a base for future initiatives. The visitor orientation centre involves the construction of the visitor orientation building and accompanying interpretive exhibit.

"The visitor orientation centre will include everything from reception and orientation, to support services such as a gift shop, parking and first-aid. There will also be administration and meeting space for Cape Race-Portugal Cove South Heritage Incorporated," said Clarence Molloy, Mayor of Portugal Cove South. "The interpretative exhibit will present visitors with an introduction to the resources of the entire Cape Race heritage area, including the Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve which has been short-listed for UNESCO World Heritage Status. The centre will entice visitors to experience these rich resources first hand by taking a tour of the various natural and historic sites."

The Regional Sectoral Diversification Fund is a $5 million fund of the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and a component of the province�s Comprehensive Regional Diversification Strategy. The fund provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development, diversification and innovation.

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-4570, 690-6290

2005 12 22                             11:55 a.m.


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