Thank you for the series of documents sent to us. I have been asked to respond on behalf of the Tourist Association.

We have not completed the questionnaire sheet, as the questions have been worded in such away as to ensure a ‘yes’ response, which could then be taken as agreement with the whole strategy. This is far from the case. As you are aware from the meeting held in the village, feelings are running very high on this topic. Most villagers disagree totally with the proposals and believe they will actually harm the tourist trade that is already in a downward spiral, due to the effect of the strong pound. Last year’s foot and mouth outbreak did of course, nothing to enhance the trade here, not only for us but the local farming community.

We believe that the information, which dates back to mid-1990s, is now not only out of date, but fundamentally flawed. This point being picked up at each of the meetings with other communities in this area, that we have attended. The conversion rate between day visitors who then stay, in the Beddgelert area, we estimate to be around 30-45% - this could possibly be even higher. The scenario is that visitors tour the area in cars on a day trip basis. Sometimes they stop in the village and go for a walk, but then go back home. However, we know from telephone calls that these people, then book a short break in the village because they were so impressed by the scenery (even when wet!) and welcome. If we were to force these same people onto buses, and they were to have a bad experience, i.e. standing in the rain waiting for the bus, full buses, wet seats etc, they would almost certainly go away and not return. As we rely almost exclusively on the UK market, can we really afford to risk alienating these important people?

We have been requesting for a number of years more carefully screened car parks in the popular areas, but this has been completely ignored. We still maintain all that is needed is extra parking, with toilet facilities, and an improved bus service around Snowdon.

It is with regret therefore that we are unable to support your proposals for Snowdonia Green Key, in its present format. We would however, be pleased to be part of any consultation processes, to look at the alternatives.

In a letter to Sue Essex the Beddgelert Tourism Association spokesperson says:

I am staggered by the strength of feeling against this initiative, which has come not just from the tourist trade but locals and farmers alike. Over the past few weeks, I have attended a number of meetings and am yet to meet anyone, other than Council Officers who are in favour of it.

Please find attached a copy letter to The Project Officer at Gwynedd Council, which is self explanatory. You will see that our Association has not been able to support the proposals in their present format. Indeed we are very concerned that they will have an adverse effect on the Snowdon area. There is a feeling amongst the people of Snowdonia that the consultation taking place is superficial and that the project will go ahead regardless. I am enclosing a advertisement for the ‘no campaign’ – I am sure the web site will be of interest.

To be more positive, we are actively working with Trail Quest and The Forestry Commission on the provision of cycle paths, new walking routes and bridle ways, as we believe that this is the way forward to sustainability and attracting more visitors whilst protecting our environment. The first new route is being opened in April through the Beddgelert Forrest and should you have the time during your next visit to North Wales, I would be delighted to show you what has been achieved to date. Our current objective is to provide a safe route from the Forestry Commission Camp Site into Beddgelert, as the road has no pavement for walkers. Ultimately, we would like the path to link up with Rhyd Ddu, Bettws Garmon and Waenfawr, which is an exciting longer term project.

 Next Observation

Back