01.11.2004
ICCA SHOWS THE WAY
The visit to the International Congress and Convention Association Convention by members of the Mayoral Commission into an International Convention Centre for London was described by commission chairman Gerry Acher as 'extremely positive'.
Representatives of the Commission attended the 500 strong conference held in Cape Town last week and met with both leading providers and users of convention facilities. The Commission sponsored a special conference forum on 'The Perfect Convention Centre' designed to debate the requirements and facilities necessary for a 21st century convention centre.
"The ICCA Convention presented us with an exceptional opportunity to talk first hand with the leading providers to the international convention market and also the key users of such facilities," said commission chairman Gerry Acher.
"If London is to seriously consider establishing an international convention centre, it can only be on the basis that it is a world leader and fitting for a world city. Listening to and discussing the issues with the acknowledged experts in this field was very important for the Commission if we are to build a solid case for an international convention centre in London," added Gerry.
Members of the Commission learnt that destination is a key element in the success of an international convention centre. "It was clearly stated that what a major city has to offer overall to a convention delegate is of vital importance; I believe that London scores highly in this respect," said Gerry.
"There could be a real opportunity for a London based international convention centre to act as a gateway both to the rest of the UK, but also to Europe. It was made clear to Commission members that many North American convention delegates would see London as a hub from which to move on to other locations in the UK and Europe," said Gerry.
Discussions were held by Commission members with the operators of such leading international convention centres as Cape Town, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Singapore and Vancouver. "It is interesting that the international convention centre in Cape Town, which has been operating for less than two years is already considering extension plans," said Gerry.
The Mayoral Commission will be reviewing a detailed consultants' report on the potential demand for a London International Convention Centre later this month and on the economic impact of such a centre early next year. It will only be after the studies have been completed that we will know the business and economic strength of the case as opposed to the emotional strength.