Gareth Wilson MLA criticises Economy Minister over stalled Destination Stewardship Plans

Gareth Wilson MLA has criticised the Economy Minister over the lack of progress in delivering Destination Stewardship Plans, a key commitment within her Department's tourism strategy that was due to see pilot delivery in 2025 but remains incomplete despite funding having been allocated to the work.

Commenting, Mr Wilson said:

'Destination Stewardship Plans were presented as a major part of the Department's long-term vision for growing tourism and spreading its benefits more evenly across Northern Ireland. The Tourism Vision committed to piloting a Destination Stewardship Plan in 2025, yet here we are nearing the end of 2026, and the Department is still unable to point to a completed plan or provide clarity on exactly which destinations are being taken forward. It seems to have rolled back its commitment to a pilot stewardship plan.

Through a series of Assembly Questions, I have repeatedly sought clarity from the Minister on what progress has been made. Unfortunately, the responses continue to refer to frameworks being developed, destinations being identified and work being ongoing, but there remains very little information on what will actually be delivered, where it will be delivered and when communities can expect to see tangible results.

Tourism is an increasingly competitive and fast-changing market. Other regions are moving quickly to develop visitor experiences, attract investment and grow tourism revenues. Northern Ireland cannot afford to be left behind because of slow decision-making and delays within the Department.

Businesses, local councils and tourism operators need certainty. They deserve to know what destinations are being considered, what criteria are being used and what resources will be available to turn these plans into reality.

I have already written to Tourism NI to make the case for Armagh City to be included within this programme. Armagh has a unique tourism offer, significant heritage assets and enormous potential for further growth. However, local stakeholders need more than warm words. They need a clear commitment and a roadmap for delivery.

The Minister now needs to provide a detailed update on the status of these plans, identify the destinations being considered and explain why a commitment that was due to be progressed in 2025 remains stuck in development. Strategies and action plans are important, but they must ultimately lead to delivery on the ground. That is what the tourism sector and local communities are entitled to expect.'