A number of large tourist facilities is expected to put into operation in Gomel region in 2005–2006. Throughout five upcoming years Gomel region is expected to have up to 100 thousand tourists. This target was outlined in project of State program for tourism development 2006–2010, being coordinated at the moment. Vadim Karmazin, deputy chief of physical culture, sports and tourism department at Gomel regional executive committee, informed "Belarus" reporter of this. To attract this number of tourists, the region needs a modern recreation infrastructure based on natural, historical and cultural attractions abundant in Gomel region.
According to Vadim Karmazin, two large facilities are being constructed today — health-improving complex with aquapark in Zhlobin and ski center near Mozyr. Ground-work at the aquapark complex, the initial cost of which is $10m, is already completed by now. The facility is planned to put into operation next year. The downhill ski facility is expected to open this year.
A large-scale renovation is in process in Turov. Museum exposition "Castle Rock" is under construction there. Similar works of historical symbols reconstruction are launched in Mozyr, Jurovichi village, Kalinkovichi district and Halch village, Vetka district. It is planned to complete reconstruction of hotel complexes in Turov, Zhitkovichi, Mozyr and Gomel by the end of this year.
Vadim Karmazin added that within the program of tourism development special attention will be paid to rural tourism, underdeveloped in the region. Gomel executive committee decided on building a guest house in Kuty village, Gomel district, this year. A private investor met support to his motion to construct a manor for tourists in one of neighborhoods of Gomel. Additionally, 12 region residents have already declared their intent to provide rural tourism services in their households.
