A TEN point plan to help boost tourism in Blaenau Gwent has been welcomed by those who care for one of the region’s most iconic buildings.

Last month, the council’s executive committee announced a new Destination Management Plan - the second of its kind and running for the next two years until 2019.

The plan identifies key areas that will make Blaenau Gwent a destination that is more attractive to visitors and more profitable for local businesses.

The actions contained within the Destination Management Action Plan align to the identified priority areas that were developed through discussions with the local tourism sector.

Rebecca Drennan, from Llanhilleth Miners Institute, said the launch of the plan has come at a perfect time.

“Llanhilleth Miners Institute is an iconic historic landmark which offers a characterful events space in the heart of the Welsh Valleys,” she said.

“Only a few minutes’ walk from Llanhilleth railway station and easily accessible by road this Grade II listed building offers a unique setting for team, meetings, conferences, product launches and corporate events.

“This year we have introduced an extra feature, by inviting delegates to take a break from the meeting and have an exclusive group tour of the Institute.”

The ten points covered by the plan are: •Business development to support those who want to grow and increase their profitability.

•Business tourism will support venues who want to grow and increase their profitability. The authority will be working with iconic buildings such as General Offices, Bedwellty House and Llanhilleth Institute that offer historic settings for meetings, incentives, conferences and events.

•The plan will challenge and change perceptions by promoting the natural beauty and historic landscapes of the area.

•Culture and heritage - heritage and culture is probably the stand out reason for visitors coming to the area. Blaenau Gwent has a special and proud history, a landscape that tells of the earliest settlers in the area and a wealth of historical sites, museums and archives that draw in visitors on a daily basis.

•Transport and rail development –continue to improve connectivity, with works to increase rail services on the Ebbw Valley rail link and completion of the A465 dualling.

•Events - to maximise the benefits of events to the tourism economy.

•Partnership working - developing local supply chains and forming cohesive and clear partnerships can maximise return from visitors.

•Town centres - strive to maintain a thriving and vibrant welcome to residents and visitors alike.

•Research and analysis - in order to improve performance it is essential that we continually measure and monitor achievements.The plan can found at democracy.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk.