Posted on Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Tourism businesses in the county will benefit from increased regional focus as well as access to government advice and support thanks to the united efforts of the private sector and the 10 active local authorities. active across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
As part of a national reform of tourism bodies across England, VisitEngland has approved the joint application by Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to become a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP). recognized.
Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent LVEP will operate alongside other accredited organizations including neighboring LVEPS; Birmingham, Solihull & Black Country; Visit the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby, and Marketing Cheshire.
As well as achieving nationally recognized official status, LVEP will provide strong leadership and management of their destinations, taking responsibility for the growth, prosperity and sustainability of the economy. tourist economy. The partnerships will work with the public and private sectors and help shape and implement national strategies and activities.
Their vital role will be promoted across government and national departments, ensuring the local visitor economy is a positive and valuable contributor to upgrading and the wider economy. bigger.
Cllr Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Leader for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council said:
“Today we welcome news from VisitEngland that we have been able to secure LVEP accreditation for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
“Staffordshire operators and Local Authorities have worked hard together to promote and protect our Visitor Economy. We are proud to continue this commitment to deliver one of the UK’s largest LVEPs. Recruitment to the next LVEP board will begin immediately.”
Councilor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Economic Development, Culture and Sport, said:
“Stoke-on-Trent is a wonderful city in the heart of a beautiful county. Securing LVEP status will enable us to capitalize on Stoke-on-Trent’s enhanced cultural status, to create a vibrant and attractive cultural tourism offering that will contribute significantly to economic growth. health of the city and county.”
VisitEngland director Andrew Stokes said:
“Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) are at the heart of transforming the UK visitor economy landscape and we are delighted to welcome the Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent LVEP to join the national program.
“We look forward to continuing our close partnership, providing ongoing support, including with a dedicated VisitEngland regional development team leader.
“Having the right national and local infrastructure in place to grow our tourism economy in an inclusive, accessible and sustainable way will ensure the UK continues to be an attractive destination for with both domestic and international tourists.”
LVEP will be able to bid for funding, business support opportunities and will work closely with national government through dedicated VisitEngland regional development leadership. They will also have access to expert training and advice across a range of areas, including accessibility, sustainability and business support.
