Tourism boost: Northamptonshire wins its bid to set up a Local Visitor Economy Partnership

A COUNTY-WIDE bid for a Local Visitor Economy Partnership for Northamptonshire has been approved by the government and UK’s tourism body VisitEngland.

The new LVEP aims to oversee the development and growth of Northamptonshire’s visitor economy.

The Discover Northamptonshire partnership will have access to resources and guidance from VisitEngland on product distribution, business support and the opportunity to bid for funding and marketing.

Discover Northamptonshire’s chair Richard Clinton, chief executive of Delapre Abbey, said: “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 alongside a cultural programme remembering the anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton.

“Securing LVEP accreditation is a significant achievement. 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.”

Local activity is already being aligned with Visit Britain’s national Starring GREAT Britain campaign and will be able to tap into future initiatives.

They will work in collaboration locally, regionally and nationally on shared priorities and targets to support and grow the visitor economy and provide leadership and management of their destinations.

North Northamptonshire Council’s deputy leader Cllr Helen Howell, executive member for sport, leisure, culture and tourism said: “This is a massive milestone and opens up so many doors to boosting tourism in Northamptonshire.

“The coordinated approach over the past three years, involving both councils and partners from across the tourism sector in Northamptonshire, will help us to realise the full potential of the visitor economy.”

North Northamptonshire will work with colleagues on West Northamptonshire Council and the LVEP board to develop a Growth Plan for the area. A delegation took part in the British Tourism and Travel Show last month to promote the county as a ‘must see’ destination for group travel.

Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “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.”

Tourism contributes more than £1 billion annually and supports more than 30,000 jobs in the UK economy.

“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.”

VisitEngland director Andrew Stokes said: “Working together, the LVEPs are simplifying our tourism landscape, ensuring England continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors.”