Tourism Society News 03 February 2006

Close this news item

PLANNING FOR FUNDING - HERITAGE LOTTERY DEBATE

Heritage Lottery Funding was the topic of a packed meeting held by The Tourism Society Consultants Group and the Association of Heritage Interpretation.

A panel of experts, chaired by Chris Evans of The Tourism Company, led a discussion airing some of the issues confronting applicants for funds. Also speaking were Karen Brookfield and Michael Tsoukaris from the HLF, Ruth Taylor from the National Trust and Steve Beioley, a consultant from The Tourism Company.

The panel discussed a number of key points including the overlap between access and audience development plans, the focus on priority groups, the amount of consultation required to complete such plans and the important role of intermediaries in disseminating good practice. The HLF responded by saying that the guidance was a framework, not a straightjacket, that they wanted to challenge applicants to think carefully about their project and present it as a rational, justified plan; there is flexibility in the way that can be done. It was, however, acknowledged that there were many misconceptions relating to HLF requirements and that there was scope for clarification.

Summing up, Chris Evans said: ' We can take great comfort from the fact that overall goals are shared, that many of the issues raised emerge from misunderstandings rather than major differences. This meeting should be the start of a dialogue between those involved in applications and the HLF, helping to clarify the issues and disseminate such findings throughout the heritage sector'.

Note to Editors:
For further information contact Flo Powell, The Tourism Society,
020 7488 2789 Email Flo

The Tourism Society is a membership organisation for professionals working in all sectors of the travel industry.

Close this news item