The appointment of a new operator at Glen Wyllin campsite promises to be an exciting boost for tourism.

Business partners James Hooper, Leanne Gilman, Tracey Dentith and Michael Dentith have been awarded the contract to run the site on a 21-year lease by its owner, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA).

The group will operate a traditional campsite, accommodating tents, caravans and motorhomes this year and will also offer catering.

The site will be open as normal from 2nd April and existing bookings will be honoured.

The new operators will begin an improvement programme that will see all forms of traditional camping retained with the addition of camping pods and possibly, in the longer term, a family log cabin.

The operators also plan to offer packages and activities to ensure visitors get the most out of their stay.

David Cretney MLC is Member of DEFA with responsibility for Forestry, Amenity and Lands and Member of the Department of Economic Development responsible for the visitor economy.

He said: ‘I am excited by these proposals and impressed by the positive attitude of this committed and enthusiastic group.

‘They have some great ideas to help visitors maximise their stays by tying in to other local businesses.

‘Expanding what’s on offer at Glen Wyllin should attract more visitors, including families, from on and off the Island, in line with the new Destination Management Plan.’

The new operators said: ‘We are incredibly pleased to have the opportunity to operate Glen Wyllin as a business and for the benefit of the Isle of Man visitor economy.

‘We hope to offer enhanced services to existing customers and attract more, new guests to the site and the Island. We look forward to greeting our first customers in April.’

DEFA invited proposals from prospective tenants after Michael Commissioners, with whom the Department has enjoyed a good relationship, surrendered its lease of the campsite.

Four potential operators were shortlisted and the successful applicants were selected at interview.

In 2015, the Department undertook a public consultation on what locals and visitors would like to see at the site.

Respondents sought new forms of camping and modernised facilities including barbecue points, a shop and a cafe serving local food.