Government 'neglecting tourism sector' says Douglas hotel

Follows news of planned Travelodge branch

Government is 'neglecting the tourism sector', according to a Douglas hotel.

It's after the Tevir Group agreed a 30-year lease for Travelodge to open a branch in the Villiers Square development.

The Welbeck is a family-run business that's been operating for 46 years and Lucy George is the manager there.

She says government isn't doing enough to promote the value of local businesses:

B/A: Manx Radio has contacted government and the Steam Packet Company for a response.

Visit Isle of Man says: "The Visit Isle of Man Board views the cost and provision of connectivity as the biggest obstacle to growth of the visitor economy, whilst recognising the operating constraints and capital investment requirements for the parties concerned and the need to provide value for money across the sector.

"The Board supports any activity making it easier for those travelling on and off the Island and welcomes recent and planned changes made by the Steam Packet Company."

We are yet to receive a response from SPC.