The World Rugby Hall of Fame received a warm welcome after local MP Mark Pawsey raised its recent opening in the House of Commons.
Mark highlighted the role that alternative attractions, such as the World Rugby Hall of Fame, can play in revitalising the nation’s high streets during questions to the Communities and Local Government Ministerial team.
Andrew Percy MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government praised Rugby for encouraging a diverse use of the town centre. The Minister also commented that these types of attractions help support a strong retail offer on high streets.
The Hall of Fame also drew praise from the Speaker of the House, the Rt. Hon. John Bercow MP, who described it as “a remarkable facility… which had to be acknowledged.”
After speaking in the Commons, Mark commented:
“Rugby’s heritage as the birthplace of an international sport, enjoyed by millions of fans across the world, is a unique feature of the town. I am very pleased that over recent years, Rugby Borough Council has sought to emphasise this as a valuable tourist attraction.”
Mark continued:
“The opening of the World Rugby Hall of Fame earlier this month represents a real boost for the town centre and will encourage people to come to Rugby. This will help support the local high street and we are already seeing interest from new retailers wanting to open in the town.”
Mark concluded:
“Since being elected as MP for Rugby in 2010, I have been keen to ensure that our town embraces its position as birthplace of the sport. I hope that the World Rugby Hall of Fame will help to build on the legacy of last year’s Rugby World Cup and will put our town firmly on the map.”