Julie Girling, MEP and Robert Syms MP met with Poole Harbour Commissioners, Jim Stewart, Cllr Elaine Atkinson, Leader of the Council and Cllr Xena Dion Portfolio Holder for a Prosperous and Sustainable Poole to discuss European Maritime Day, which Poole is hosting in May 2017.
This internationally important maritime Conference brings together key stakeholders involved in the maritime sector from shipbuilding to offshore energy, the coastal environment and tourism to address the major challenges they face.
The Conference will be accompanied by a maritime festival lasting several days and gives Poole the opportunity to celebrate its maritime heritage on a scale never seen before here.
Cllr Xena Dion, who secured the bid for Poole, explains: “This is a unique opportunity to show the world what we have to offer here in Poole. We want it to be a remarkable and memorable event with the Tall Ships, flotillas, a pageant, international shipping, yacht and power boat racing, interactive maritime events, nautical festivities and so much more”.
"This event will give a tremendous boost to Poole’s economy. It brings in thousands of visitors - filling our hotels, guesthouses, bars and restaurants and ensuring great trading opportunities for our visitor attractions and shops. It is particularly important for local businesses as the Conference brings in the most influential people within the maritime sector across Europe and provides an unrivalled showcase to promote the talent, expertise and craftsmanship we have within Poole. We are delighted with the support we have had from our MEPs Julie Girling and Giles Chichester and appreciate their continued interest.