VisitScotland cash lifeline for Cullen tourism group
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A CULLEN tourism group are celebrating after being thrown a financial lifeline by VisitScotland.
The funding for Cullen Voluntary Tourist Initiative (CVTI) will safeguard the Cullen Tourist Office during the rest of 2020 following the main Covid-19 lockdown.
In May this year, VisitScotland launched the Coronavirus Support Scheme for Tourism Destination and Sector Organisations. The fund was open to all destination and sector groups that have a membership base made up of entirely, or predominantly, tourism businesses.
A total of 98 applications were received and reviewed. Successful applicants could be awarded up to 50 per cent of their membership income under threat due to coronavirus.
David McCubbin, Cullen Voluntary Tourist Initiative chairman, said: “We are absolutely delighted that our application to the VisitScotland the Coronavirus Support Scheme for tourism destination and sector organisations scheme was successful in order to protect the work we undertake to support the tourism, hospitality and retail sectors of Cullen, Deskford and Lintmill.
"Tourism is a key sector of the economy of Cullen and to secure the funds will allow us to maintain our activity in 2020/21 of running the seasonal tourist office, Discover Cullen website and social media channels, host the annual Cullen Skink World Championships and to represent the interests of Cullen businesses alongside VisitScotland, Visit Moray Speyside Tourism BID and VisitAberdeenshire.
"The funding will provide us with a much needed financial lifeline through to 2021.”
Riddell Graham, Director of Industry and Destination Development, VisitScotland, said “VisitScotland was keen to develop a funding package for destination organisations and sector groups as a way of supporting them through what has been the most challenging period the tourism industry has ever faced.
"Due to the devastating impact of the pandemic it is unsurprising that the number of applications have been in excess of the funding available and difficult decisions have had to be taken."
Find out more about CVTI and other Cullen groups and businesses at www.discovercullen.com
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