We are discussing the "Tour of Britain" cycle race, in "Obstacles to tourism" also the GB rally.
I think we need to debate the pros and cons of this type of event, separately.....
Does the cost equal the benefit.....
Is there a short term increase in business....
Is it a longer term investment.... ie. How many day visitors of the tour, will return for a longer stay,
I think it is more long term, after the race, I had to go to Curry's, the whole area was empty, shop staff were outside chatting in the sun, the locals had kept away from town, so short term not an asset, it would be good to know if the hotels gained any trade? but I doubt it.
The cost of preparing the town, for this type of event,....... the removal and replacement of the traffic island comes to mind, a figure of £10.000 was mentioned, I said at the time why did they replace it, if the event is to return, a bit of common sense will be needed for the future.
Overall I think we need this type of event, and we would be complaining if we did not get them, as you probably know, I am leaning towards a Town Manager/Business group to improve Llandudno,(see BID thread) and this is exactly the type of event I would expect to be organised.
So does cost equal benefit.
OTHER ASSETS PLEASE...