The Isle of Wight’s tourism boss, Will Myles, has written a letter to the hundreds of businesses on our Island that rely on the tourism and visitor economy.
Established as the Destination Marketing company for the Island, Visit Isle of Wight has in this challenging time been approached by those inside and outside of the industry to offer guidance, support and strategy in what is proving to be a crisis of unprecedented levels.
A number of questions are being asked such as ‘How can I keep my business going?’, ‘How will I pay my staff?’ and ‘What can I do to keep my attraction alive?’.
In response, Mr Myles has said:
“I want you to know that we are doing everything we can at this moment. I am speaking to the Government bodies, our MP and our local council, while seeking advice from national tourism and trade bodies. We are in regular contact with our Island ferry and transport providers to ensure that we are all aligned with our approach.
“As the MD of Visit Isle of Wight, I can reassure you that I am asking these questions on behalf of the businesses that I serve, in the hope that we can get some guidance on those issues and more.
“We are working hard to get answers to questions, but as I am sure you will appreciate, solutions that fit every scenario are not available.
“I am personally gladdened to see that many businesses are working to find their own way – for example, pubs and restaurants offering take away services – but I know that for many other businesses, this is simply not an option”.
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Island Echo understands that a number of large hotels on the Island have closed their doors and are sending coach loads of holidaymakers back to the mainland.
Will has added:
“We will continue to update our Industry website https://visitwightpro.com/2020/03/06/novel-coronavirus-covid-19-advice-hub/ with as much relevant information to assist you with your business and how you can access recently announced government finance and assistance streams.
“We will also update our consumer facing website with health and travel advice, there is dedicated page at https://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/travel/coronavirus-information
“We are also working to make the information more prominent on the homepage for potential visitors.
“This is a situation unlike anything that has been encountered before.
“This situation will not last forever, and only together can we rebuild what has been lost”.
Can i have my Bid money back then?
If they let people sit in their cars while travelling to the island instead of only 2 boats a day that you can I think it will not stop people visiting the island I am high risk will family on island and would wish to stay in my car