First chair appointed to new partnership which will boost county and city tourism and the visitor economy

A newly formed partnership to boost tourism and grow the visitor economy in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent has appointed its first chair.

The Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) announced today that Alastair Budd, director of Trentham Estate, will take on the role.

Alastair said:

I am delighted to be announced as the first Chair of the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent LVEP. It’s a fantastic opportunity to play a role in promoting the whole of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent – a destination which has so much to offer both visitors and local people. As chair of the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent LVEP, and representative for the Trentham Estate, I now look forward to recruiting a high-calibre board to take this programme forward, working with destination partners and VisitEngland.

This is a significant milestone for the tourism and hospitality sector and it’s with heartfelt thanks to all who contributed in the early days to take part in consultation that has helped secure our Local Visitor Economy Status with VisitEngland.

Launching the LVEP and recruiting the new board, marks a strategic leap forward for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and I look forward to making sure that the LVEP becomes an established a trusted lead for the visitor economy, aligning efforts for sustained regional growth.”

The LVEP brings together the private sector and the 10 local authorities, which operate across the county and city. It will oversee the strengthening of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent’s thriving visitor economy and help build on the success and world class reputation of its international and nationally recognised visitor brands.

Alastair, with support of the LVEP board members, will now help set the vision and ensure sustainable growth and development.

Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills Philip White said:

It’s fantastic news that Alastair has taken on the role of the first LVEP chair. He has a wealth of experience in the sector and manages one of the county’s leading visitor attractions.

He understands better than anyone that the visitor economy is a vital part of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent’s economic growth. Our vision is that the county of Staffordshire and City of Stoke-on-Trent become an inclusive, must-visit destination for domestic visitors and those from around the globe. Alastair will be instrumental in harnessing this potential, while shaping and delivering a strategic vision for the future.”

Now the LVEP is looking to recruit new board members to work with Alastair to help to deliver a growth plan in partnership with VisitEngland to support England’s Tourism strategy.

Anyone interested can find out more on the LVEP board recruitment page.

Applications must be submitted by Friday June 7.