A number of local councils across West Yorkshire have been successful in their bid to maximise the potential of the county’s tourism economy.
Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees, Bradford, and Wakefield councils will come together to form a new Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) alongside West Yorkshire Combined Authority. Each of the districts of West Yorkshire manage their own tourism activity, with this serving a combined 65 million annual visitors.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:
“I’m thrilled that the rich heritage of our districts has been recognised in this way.
“Through this new partnership, we can drive forward West Yorkshire’s tourism offer and give the sector the vital support it needs.
“Combining our strengths to build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire, we’re ready to show the world why it’s the place to be.”
The new LVEP programme will be developed and administered by VisitEngland, whilst allowing the different districts to collaborate, share ideas and their resources to grow the visitor economy, bring in more visitors and inward investment. Another aim will also be to create further job opportunities across West Yorkshire.
Alongside collaboration between the different councils, the LVEP in West Yorkshire will deliver expert advice, dedicated toolkits and training programmes. Support for applications for important national funding will also be provided, with the group working alongside public and private sector partners through regular meetings.
Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture, and education, Jonathan Pryor, added:
“We are delighted to have secured LVEP status and excited that we will now be working more closely with our neighbours so that together, we can showcase the very best West Yorkshire has to offer.
“Our region is a completely unique, vibrant, and beautiful place which deserves an international spotlight. By working more collaboratively and sharing ideas, we can support each other in highlighting what makes our districts so remarkably individually whilst also collectively showing just how special West Yorkshire is as a region.”
Councillor Michaell Collins, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, and sports, said:
“Our new tourism partnership is going to be right at the heart of work to attract visitors to our wonderful region. We’re excited that more and more people, both from this country and from abroad, are discovering all the diverse and special things which West Yorkshire has to offer.
“This visitor economy is central for our plans for Wakefield district to be a growing hub for sporting, cultural and leisure activities. Increasing visitor numbers is great news for our fantastic local businesses, and it help provide great job opportunities for local people.”
Alongside the successful applications for the LVEP, West Yorkshire will enjoy the cultural celebrations of Leeds2023, as well as Kirklees Year of Music. These events are all helping to build up to Bradford’s time as the UK’s City of Culture in 2025.
Image credit: iStock
