Councillor expresses Milk Cup concern

Former Mayor of Coleraine David McClarty has expressed his concern that the north coast region’s lack of accommodation could be penalising the Milk Cup football tournament.

Whilst congratulating organisers on organising this year's successful event, the UUP councillor issued an urgent appeal to those involved in the tourism and hospitality industry to come together and look at the situation.

Following news that the Milk Cup was watched by an estimated 100,000 spectators over six days – with 10,000 at the three finals – Mr McClarty said it was time for interested parties to sit down and see what could be done to assist the organisers and their future plans.

He said: “We cannot afford to let this problem continue and at the same time I realise that hotels cannot simply spring up to cater for an event one week of the year.

“While the (Milk Cup) committee has to look at whether it expands the event to cater for the huge demand from national associations and major football clubs or simply mark time with a maximum 56 teams, it is vital that those of us with the interest of projecting the Causeway Coast area and safeguarding it future assist in every way we can."

Mr McClarty also urged local authorities to examine the infrastructure of the region and redouble efforts to make it worthwhile for investors to consider increasing accommodation, as well as assessing the viability of other avenues of event tourism that popularise the area over the year such as the North-West ‘200’.

“I think the Milk Cup Committee deserves great credit for organising another record-breaking competition. The special buzz that the tournament brings to the area is truly unique and we owe them an immense debt of gratitude.

“We have a wonderful event on our doorstep and, just like good football managers, we must have a tactical plan for the next challenge and make sure we net the right result," he concluded.

(MB)