The Town of Clarenville is undertaking a winter tourism strategy with a focus on marketing and product development activities, thanks in part to investments by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Along with a print and radio promotional campaign, there will be co-ordination of existing activities and events. The product development aspect of the strategy will focus on improvements to the White Hills Ski Resort, and a snowmobile loading ramp and parking area will be constructed on White Hills Road. Improvements to the base of the hill will also involve a new stage and a natural amphitheatre for small winter concerts and other events throughout the year.

"Recreational tourism is a key economic generator, and the skiing and snowmobiling facilities available in the Clarenville area are integral parts of Newfoundland and Labrador�s tourism infrastructure," said the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "The Government of Canada is pleased to partner on projects that help strengthen rural communities by building on existing potential and broadly-based local initiative."

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is providing a contribution of $123,100 under its Innovative Communities Program, while the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development is investing $50,000. The total cost of the winter tourism strategy is $268,000.

"Clarenville has a history of offering visitors a fun and enjoyable experience," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Further development of the community�s infrastructure improves the experience of its visitors, and hopefully entices them to return in the future.　 The Provincial Government is committed to contributing to the expansion of local infrastructure that benefits the people of a region and encourages economic development."

The promotional campaign gets underway this week, with many weeks of skiing, snowmobiling and other outdoor activities still to be enjoyed.

"The Town of Clarenville�s Economic Development Plan emphasizes the need for a winter tourism strategy," says Deputy Mayor Lisa Browne and chair of the town's Economic Development Committee.  "I am delighted to be working with our community partners and the private sector in order to further establish the Clarenville area as a winter destination.  This project is an excellent example of us all working together to benefit our area."　

The town's partners on this initiative are:  White Hills Ski Resort, Clarenville and Area Chamber of Commerce, Destination St. John's, New Curtain Theatre, Clarenville Area Nordic Ski Club, College of the North Atlantic.　 A number of private sector businesses are joining in as sponsors.

Deputy Mayor Browne notes that in addition to the activities awaiting outdoor enthusiasts, the Clarenville area also offers an array of shopping, dining and entertainment options, including a theatre company, that combine for a memorable winter experience in the area.

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2009 02 19                                                    10:30 a.m.