Green Light for Pioneering £19m Project to Future-Proof North Wales' Tourism Sector
Ambition North Wales and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai have signed a £4.43m funding agreement that will unlock a transformative £19m investment into world-class training and knowledge-transfer facilities across five locations in North Wales.
The Tourism Talent Network will create a network of cutting-edge facilities dedicated to apprenticeships, specialist skills support, extensive engagement with small businesses, and a comprehensive school outreach programme.
Backed by a £4.43m contribution from the North Wales Growth Deal, the project will revolutionize how tourism and hospitality skills are delivered in the region, positioning North Wales as a leader in sustainable tourism and hospitality innovation.
Grŵp Llandrillo Menai is leading the initiative in collaboration with a diverse range of ‘Spoke’ businesses, including Portmeirion and Zip World. Two additional spokes will be appointed later this year, with strategic partnerships also including Snowdonia Hospitality and Leisure, and the National Trust.
The project’s goal is to provide targeted training, innovation, and business support to raise quality standards and promote tourism and hospitality as a sustainable, desirable career choice across North Wales communities.
A stand-out feature of the project will be the development of a state-of-the-art training hub at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Rhos-on-Sea campus, part-funded by the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme (subject to final approval). This hub will connect to specialist training facilities at ‘Spoke’ sites and be supported by Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s comprehensive training support services.
The project will also engage with local businesses and schools across North Wales, ensuring that tailored, future-focused training is delivered in line with the evolving needs of the tourism sector.
Gwenllian Roberts, Executive Director of Commercial Development, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, said,
“We’re thrilled to have finalised the funding agreement for the Tourism Talent Network project. This initiative stems from an incredible partnership, recognizing the vital role and unique appeal of North Wales' tourism and hospitality sector. The Growth Deal funding has been a catalyst, unlocking significant private and public investment that will help drive sustainable growth in the sector.
“This project will enhance quality, create jobs, and boost the visibility of career opportunities in tourism across North Wales. The partnership model we’ve developed can serve as a blueprint for addressing skills needs in other sectors, helping to secure long-term economic success for the region.”
Cllr. Charlie McCoubrey, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council, explained,
“We are proud to support this groundbreaking initiative—the first of its kind in the UK. The Tourism Talent Network is a crucial step in creating a more resilient and sustainable economy for North Wales. By focusing on career development within tourism, we will ensure that the region’s culture, environment, and landscape are leveraged in a responsible and sustainable way.
“This £19m investment in education and training infrastructure will benefit around 100 tourism and hospitality businesses in the region, create 68 new jobs, and support 250 apprenticeships.”
Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said,
“The Tourism Talent Network project will build upon the world-class skills and expertise already present in North Wales' tourism sector. The establishment of specialist training hubs will provide a sustainable foundation for future growth and long-term benefits to the region.
“With a £120m investment from the Welsh Government through the North Wales Growth Deal, this project will play a pivotal role in transforming the local economy.”
Wales Office Minister Nia Griffith, added,
“Tourism is a cornerstone of the North Wales economy, attracting millions of visitors each year. This project will provide essential training, equipping people with the skills needed to thrive in the tourism and hospitality sector. The UK Government’s investment in the North Wales Growth Deal underscores our commitment to growing the regional economy and creating better career opportunities.”
Key themes for the Tourism Talent Network will focus on future-proofing the industry, including digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of language and culture. Extensive consultation has already ensured that the project will address the sector’s immediate and long-term needs, with further private sector partners expected to join the initiative soon.
Click here to find out more about the Tourism Talent Network.
