15 September 2020

Coal, slate, steel - Wales has been renowned for its thriving industries for centuries. But in recent times, tourism has taken its place at the forefront of Wales' economy.

It can be a boost for local businesses - but is the price too much to pay for our Welsh communities? How far is too far in attracting tourists to the country?

This issue will be discussed as part of a special programme of Pawb a'i Farn with Betsan Powys on S4C this Thursday, 17 September at 9.00pm.

"I worked on programmes regarding the situation around holiday homes in Wales 20 years ago. Now, 20 years on, the number of holiday homes has gone up, and the answer to the problem still hasn't been found," said Betsan.

Although it's a problem that traditional Welsh holiday destinations have experienced for decades, now, according to Betsan, the situation is escalating.

"We are now looking at areas that were not facing the problem 20 years ago. Recent figures show growth in the number of holiday homes, but also show that the areas in question are now expanding further from the coast.

"The areas where houses are bought for Airbnb or holiday homes are spreading. Twenty years ago, the situation was a crisis for the Welsh language, but this time, it's more than that. It's an economic issue. Where will we be in another 20 years?"

But like all debates, the situation is not black and white.

"There are strong feelings on all sides," Betsan added. "There are those who feel that tourism and holiday homes are key to the future of the rural economy, but others believe that it is destroying it. Pawb a'i Farn will give us a platform to discuss this openly.

"Do we need more rules, more taxes? Are there other areas, or other countries that are better able to balance the economic value and future of communities? Or is it just that Wales needs the money, and that's it? If you have a question, ask it, if you have an opinion, share it."

The programme will welcome guests from the tourism sector and local and national politicians who will be ready to voice their opinions. To contribute, or to ask a question about the issue, please contact Tinopolis at pawbaifarn@tinopolis.com.

Pawb a'i Farn – Thursday at 9.00pm on S4C.