Exciting News for Northamptonshire's Tourism Sector, as Discover Northamptonshire gains LVEP approval
Northamptonshire's tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost with the approval of a joint bid for a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) for Discover Northamptonshire by VisitEngland. This approval paves the way for a more coordinated and strategic approach to promoting the region's tourism.
Local Visitor Economy Partnerships have been introduced as part of the government's response to an independent review of the nation's visitor economy. These partnerships have the potential to attract additional support and funding from Westminster, working collaboratively on shared priorities and targets to support and grow the visitor economy.
Achieving nationally recognised official status, LVEPs provide strong leadership and management of their destinations. By working together with both the public and private sectors, they help shape and deliver national strategies and activities that promote sustainable growth.
The new partnership for Northamptonshire, approved by VisitEngland and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, ensures that the greatest benefits are achieved for the region's visitor economy. As an LVEP, the Discover Northamptonshire partnership will have access to valuable resources and guidance from VisitEngland on product distribution, business support, and opportunities to bid for funding and marketing.
“Securing the LVEP accreditation is a game-changer for Northamptonshire’s tourism sector. This recognition will not only enhance our strategic approach to promoting the area but also unlock new opportunities for funding and support from the government.”
Local activities are already being aligned with Visit Britain's national 'Starring GREAT Britain' campaign, with the potential to tap into wider campaigns across the country in the future. An important aspect of support includes highlighting available government funding streams and developing a 'toolkit' to assist the LVEP with bids to those streams.
According to Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, “Securing the LVEP accreditation is a game-changer for Northamptonshire's tourism sector. This recognition will not only enhance our strategic approach to promoting the area but also unlock new opportunities for funding and support from the government.
“With tourism contributing over £1 billion annually and supporting more than 30,000 jobs, this partnership allows us to harness the full potential of our vibrant visitor economy and put Northamptonshire on the map as a must visit destination. We look forward to collaborating with local businesses and stakeholders to showcase Northamptonshire’s unique attractions and drive sustainable growth in the sector.”
Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership, agrees saying, "Northamptonshire has a unique opportunity to elevate its visitor economy, attracting new investment, creating jobs, and showcasing the rich experiences our county has to offer. There is no better year to achieve this status than the year in which the Northamptonshire hosts the Women’s Rugby World Cup, celebrates 75 years of Formula 1 all alongside a cultural programme remembering the anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton.
"Securing LVEP accreditation is a significant achievement, made possible by the dedication and collaboration of North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council and all our partners across the public and private sectors. While challenges remain, this partnership brings a coordinated, strategic approach that will unlock new funding and support, allowing us to compete on a national stage. By working together, we can ensure Northamptonshire is firmly on the map as a must-visit destination."
Businesses keen to get involved can email the Discover Northamptonshire team at info@discover-northamptonshire.gov.uk to express interest.
