With the Coronavirus pandemic crushing the tourism industry, it’s no surprise that the many hotels in Llandudno are taking a big hit. The UK’s lockdown rules on movement and bans on travel have had a huge impact on the hospitality sector. Hotels have been forced to shut their doors for the foreseeable future, meaning no income, and some potentially never opening again.
Before the UK was demanded to adhere to strict lockdown rules, the tourism industry in North Wales was hit with a fall in bookings. Many people refrained from travelling in fear of catching Covid-19, and lots of bookings for the rest of the year have been cancelled.
In order to try and save themselves, Hotel’s have been forced to furlough staff and close their doors – leaving Llandudno’s seafront buildings deserted in what would usually be a bustling time.
“A lot of uncertainty”
David Evans, a co-owner of the restaurant group Dylans, explained that the positive outlook for the next 12 months had already been tarnished by the multiple storms that hit in February. Now we have the Coronavirus, there is a lot of uncertainty.
He added that it is “difficult to know how to play it” as no one has had any training or experience in dealing with a crisis like this. People are having to look at the worst case and “what if scenarios”, and making plans on how they can support their staff and customers.
“A rapidly evolving situation”
Edward Hiller, the managing director of Mostyn Estates raised the point that lots of small ‘staycation’ holidays are booked closer to the time of travel. So, we are only just beginning to see the results of a rapidly evolving situation.
He exclaims that “The Government will need to keep a close eye on things to ensure that business cash flow does not tighten markedly across the sector”.
Thankfully, support is slowly being provided. The Welsh Government have already paid out £16.5 million of an estimated £40 million of support. The largest businesses are being processed first as this will benefit the highest number of employees.
Businesses must pay the employees which have been furloughed. They can then claim back any wages from the government. However, this is proving difficult for many businesses as they don’t have the money to pay their employees in the first place.
Businesses in the tourism sector, or stakeholder in these businesses in Wales should visit the Business Wales website if they would like any advice. The Public Health Wales website also offers up to date information on public health.
