Official recognition for county-wide tourism programme

A joint programme between Marketing Lancashire and VisitBlackpool, supported by the county's full 15 councils, has been granted Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status by VisitEngland.

Tourism is one of Lancashire’s key sectors, pre-Covid, the county's visitor economy was worth £4bn per year, attracting 69million visitors and supporting over 60,000 jobs.

This new distinction places them among the country’s leading organisations for destination management.

LVEPs will provide strong leadership and management of their destinations, working in collaboration with the public and private sector to help shape and deliver strategy and activities to promote sustainable growth.

As an LVEP, the Marketing Lancashire and VisitBlackpool partnership will also have access to resources and guidance from VisitEngland on product distribution, business support and the opportunity to bid for funding and marketing.

Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development and growth for Lancashire County Council, said: “In Lancashire, we are committed to generating sustainable growth through the creation of value-added jobs, attracting new talent and stimulating innovation across the region which is underpinned by the Visitor Economy and the quality of life that offers residents.

“The role of LVEPs will be promoted across government and national agencies to ensure that the Lancashire visitor economy is an active and valued contributor to Levelling Up and the wider economy.”

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “On the back of significant investment in marketing and events, we have delivered a spectacular post-pandemic recovery here in Blackpool and we will continue to deliver investment and initiatives that build on that growth. There is now an opportunity to complement that by developing closer working relationships at both regional and national level.”