12.05.04
Expert team investigating case for an International Convention Centre in London
sound out industry at IMEX - Stand B200
Members of the expert Commission appointed to decide whether London needs a new,
world-class convention centre are in Frankfurt this week to discuss the issue
with leading industry figures at IMEX.
The London ICC Commission has been established by the London Development Agency
to explore in detail the potential benefits of building a large-scale
international convention centre in the capital. It is chaired by business
leader Gerry Acher, who will be joined at IMEX by recently-appointed members of
the Commission, all industry leaders in their own right.
Mr Acher, Chair of the London ICC Commission, said: 'Frankfurt will be another
vital element in our consultation process as we look in detail at whether
London is as competitive as it should be in this sector and whether there's a
strong case for a new, large-scale convention centre.
'I am very pleased to have appointed to the Commission some of the brightest
international talents in this sector. It is crucial that we learn from all four
corners of the world and IMEX gives us an ideal opportunity to do that.'
Some of the important questions to be addressed by the Commission include:
Does London attract its fair share of new business tourists, and if not, why
not?
Is there a business case for an International Convention Centre in London?
Are there other ways, other than a purpose-built ICC, to fill any gap in
London's share of the business tourism market?
If there is a case for an ICC, where should it be built, how should it be
financed and in what timeframe could it be completed?
Mr Acher added: 'I am committed to finding the right answer for London and have
already made it clear to the London Development Agency that, if my commission
finds the case proven for an ICC, then I will be at the forefront of a campaign
to build it. Conversely, if the case is not made I will say so clearly and
robustly.'
Because the Commissioners are gathering at IMEX, Frankfurt will also play host
to the second formal meeting of the London ICC Commission on May 13.