Stratford-upon-Avon welcomes Margaret Hodge MP
Margaret Hodge MP, the Minister of State (Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism), Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), visited Stratford-upon-Avon yesterday to meet with a number of key cultural partners.
During her visit Ms Hodge was given tours and presentations on the transformation of The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the World Class Stratford redevelopment areas and the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust’s development proposals. The visit was coordinated by Advantage West Midlands, Tourism West Midlands, the British Resort and Destination Association and Shakespeare Country.
In the afternoon Ms Hodge attended a meeting to discuss regional tourism and creative industry priorities which was attended by key tourism representatives. Afterwards a Regional Cultural Stakeholders meeting took place to review the DCMS arrangements at a regional level.
Ms Hodge has been very supportive of the World Class Stratford plans and was recently quoted as saying “Stratford is a great tourist destination. We want more and more people to visit and take in the wonders of this historic area. I wish World Class Stratford every success."
Cllr Chris Saint, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “World Class Stratford is about taking the town forward to ensure it remains vibrant for the many tourists to visit us in the future, and I welcome the comments from the Minister.
“Of course, the developments in the town will also be a great boon for local people in improving their environment and facilities.”
Phil Hackett, Chief Executive for Shakespeare Country, stated “We were delighted to welcome Margaret Hodge to Stratford and show her the exciting plans that are already underway in creating a unique, vibrant and world class town”.