Convention centre vote welcomed by Chamber

Business Central

Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

Media Statement

24 June 2014

Convention centre vote welcomed by Chamber

Wellington Employers' Chamber of Commerce welcomes the vote today by city councillors to send the convention centre proposal for public feedback.

"This is an exciting and promising proposal which has real potential to deliver opportunities to the city and the region," says Raewyn Bleakley, Chief Executive.

"Having a local successful developer on the project along with the Hilton brand shows a lot of great work has been done to this point.

"But we must make sure the business case stacks up.

"Clearly, councillors are convinced it does and that it's a sound investment for the city.

"A cost to the city of $2 million a year for an estimated return of $30 million in new spending and new jobs does appear to be a good return on investment.

"The convention market is definitely worth pursuing as the city's entertainment, dining and existing accommodation sector will all benefit from the higher numbers of convention attendees.

"Done properly the convention centre has the potential to be a real drawcard for the city and region, bring in more high-value visitors, and allow us to showcase our strengths - our tourist attractions, our environment, our ICT sector, and our education sector."

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