BUSINESS leaders have called on Torbay Council to re-think its new tourism structure.

The lack of a dedicated director of tourism following the promotion of Aviva Pearson and the lack of information reaching the industry were raised at the business forum meeting.

Torbay Development Agency is to commission consultants to draw up a new Bay tourism strategy by this summer.

But after some members said action was needed now, deputy mayor Kevin Carroll revealed they were looking at extra marketing for next month.

Alan Denby, of Torbay Development Agency, explained the tourism department was now in the same building as the new residents' and visitors' services.

The agency will be responsible for strategic tourism while the council department is responsible for day-to-day running of the operation.

Michael Atkinson, business forum chairman, said concern had been voiced about a 'vacuum' existing around tourism and tourism marketing in the Bay.

"There is a growing unease in the industry as to what is happening," he said.

Arthur Christian, chairman of Babbacombe and St Marychurch Traders, wanted a strategy before the summer and wanted it driven by the tourism industry.

"I am concerned the split in tourism operationally and strategically is not good in the long term," he said.

Lynne Hookings, chairman of Torbay Tourism Forum, echoed those concerns.

"We aren't against change and want to work with you. I am not against updating the existing strategy. I am against the time delay in establishing a strategy," she added.

She said there was a 'void' in informing the industry exactly what marketing was being done for this year, marketing the industry could support.

Barry Cole, TDA board member, said: "What we need is a crisis strategy between now and May to maximise on the opportunities offered by the recession. We do need something done now."

He said strategic and the operational aspects of tourism need to be brought together. Because of the 'limbo' over the appointment of a tourism director, no new proposals had been put to the tourist industry by the council as a basis for a new strategy, he said.

Keith Richardson, owner of the Grand Hotel in Torquay, said there was a 'void' which had not been filled.

Tony Smythe, director of Torbay Accommodation Providers, was concerned at the impact the closure of Quaywest and pleaded for it to be open this summer.

"Now is the time we should be going out nationally to get people down here," he said.

Cllr Carroll said they were already considering doing extra marketing in February.

"I am sure we can find some money for some sort of campaign. Within the authority a lot of things are happening. We are on the case. There is nothing wrong with the strategy, but it needs to evolve."

Mr Denby said TDA board members and Torbay Town Centres Company were also looking at what is needed to make sure the resort is in 'tip top condition' for this year's visitors.