Regional UK tourist board South West Tourism is to close – a victim of government spending cuts.
The board is funded by the South West Regional Development Agency, which is being axed by the government.
SWT encourages the development of tourism in Bath, Bristol, Bournemouth, Poole, Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire but will shut from next spring.
Chairman Alistair Handyside said: “The removal of the RDA means the removal of funding for SWT, and from April 2011 SWT will cease to exist.
“The board of SWT is working with industry partners and stakeholders to consider transition from April 2011 onwards to ensure that there remains a focus on what is critical to businesses in the South West, both now and in the future.”
He added: “It is our absolute priority that we work in partnership with industry groups, destinations and key stakeholders to scope the future.
“There is still the need for leadership, focus and support for industry and stakeholders at local and sub regional at all levels.
“Equally, there is the need for a route for collaboration rather than competition, so that we can avoid duplication and gaps in delivery.”
He urged those with a passion for tourism in the region “to look again and reset how we work together to support and develop the industry as a whole”.