Set up in 1989 the Abergavenny Tourist Information Centre started as a partnership between Monmouth Borough Council and the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority. It now employs three permanent and two seasonal staff as well as providing an important base for Area Wardens covering the Eastern part of the National Park area. The Centre provides valuable free advice to the local business community, residents and visitors. A recent Tourism Growth Area grant has allowed the partners to recently refurbish the centre making it more enjoyable and accessible to all.
Mayor of Abergavenny, Cllr John Prosser said: “We are all very proud of what this anniversary represents and it is a testament to all the hard work that has been undertaken by so many people in the community. The Tourist Information Centre is a valuable asset for the community and visitors alike, and as a tourist town and indeed a tourist county the Centre provides an essential service.”
Nicola Smith, Principal Tourism Officer for Monmouthshire County Council commented: “We value the partnership working with the National Park Authority and look forward to another fine tourist season in this part of Wales. The area has so much to offer and we value the skill and experience of the staff here to help visitors get the best out of this special place.”
Jenny Taylor from the Abergavenny and District Tourist Association said: “Whilst all our accommodation providers are aware of where to point our guests in the direction of walks, fishing, tourist attractions etc there are many times when we need the expertise of the staff at our local TIC. This is a pleasure when the guests return and tell us that the staff were extremely helpful, providing maps, timetables and specialised knowledge. Where would our providers be without them? The ADTA want to thank all the people involved in providing our town with such support – long may they continue.”
John Cook, Chief Executive of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said: “Abergavenny is often regarded as the very gateway into Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Visitors return here again and again, making this market town one of the most popular and visited destinations in the National Park. The real winners in this celebration though are of course the thousands of residents and small businesses whose livelihoods rely on the tourist trade and our visitors who continue to see a real improvement in customer service in the National Park.
“I’d like to say a special thank you to all our partners but in particular Monmouthshire County Council and Abergavenny District Tourism Association who share this special day with us. Their commitment has to support the local economy and the Abergavenny area has been invaluable.”