Prince Edward County’s proposed Tourism Management Plan has been deferred back to staff with many councillors concerned that it won’t benefit residents.
Todd Davis, Director of Community Services Program and Initiatives, presented the ambitious plan to Committee of the Whole Thursday.
There are several pieces to the long and detailed plan which is meant to address the ongoing tourism challenges the County is facing, especially after the 2020 season that saw unprecedented increases in day trip traffic to the County.
Councillors praised the comprehensive work done by staff and applauded pieces of the document but some of the biggest concerns were in regards to the plans involving Wellington.
The plan calls for the closure of the Belleville Street boat launch for at least the 2021 season and altering the hours of the Wellington Beach boat launch and the Wellington Beach Bulk Water Station during the summer.
Several councillors echoed Councillor Phil Prinzen’s statement that he doesn’t see the benefit for residents with Councillor Janice Maynard saying the plan punishes residents.
Other issues the plan addresses include parking and traffic across the County.
Most councillors also felt the plan was just too big to deal with as one issue, and suggested breaking it up into pieces.
Staff will revisit the plan and present revised options to council in February.
See the Tourism Management Plan here.
