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Heritage in Wales

Perhaps the only inspired development emerging from the new coalition Assembly Government was the decision to move Visit Wales – the old Wales Tourist Board – from economic development into the new Ministry of Heritage, alongside Culture, Sports and Language.

Not surprisingly, many have been asking, given some of the advantage we have in Wales over other parts of the UK in terms of our heritage and culture, why this move was not made earlier?

It would seem that this probably had more to do with the personal fiefdoms of politicians, especially given that the Minister for Economic Development in the previous asministration was very much attached to tourism as part of his portfolio.

There are many areas in which the different parts of this new so-called ‘Ministry of Fun’ can work together over the next four years.

Clearly, there is a synergy between tourism and sport in Wales, especially given the popularity of activities such as hill walking, hiking, kayaking and climbing, as well as extreme sports such as surfing and mountain biking.

Of course, with over 200 golf courses, Wales is in an excellent position to take advantage of the Ryder Cup at the Celtic Manor in Newport in 2010 and the Minsitry will play a critical role in ensuring that North Wales gets its fair share of this once in a generation opportunity to put us firmly on the map in the golfing world.

I feel, however, that much more could be done to publicise the culture of our nation such as providing long term financial support to events such as the National Eisteddfod of Wales and the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, both of which are critical to the nation’s soul. There should also be greater focus on the world class heritage sites we have here in Wales, many of which need greater investment in visitor facilities to bring the story of these ancient monuments to life.

However, any increase in marketing in highlighting the advantages of culture and heritage should not only be targeted at visitors to our nation, but also at the citizens of Wales, many of whom do not take advantage of what we have in this great nation.

For example, when I recently visited the magnificent Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley, I was made aware, for the first time, of the “Heritage in Wales” membership scheme.

For the sum of £45.00, this gives you and your family free entry to the 127 ancient monuments managed by CADW – the Assembly’s historic environment division. My two young sons were enchanted by the ruins of this ancient place of worship, and you can imagine what they will be like when I take them to Caernarfon Castle sometime next week.

Yet whilst over 1.2 million people visit our ancient monuments every year, only two per cent of those are members of this excellent scheme which deserves greater support, certainly from the Welsh public.

I shall certainly take advantage of this over the next few months and I hope other people will do the same.

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