The East Sussex, Brighton & Hove and West Sussex Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) has unveiled a transformative10-year strategy to enhance Sussex’s reputation as a thriving, vibrant and regenerative destination – and is looking for industry leaders to be part of it.
Developed with input from key strategic partners and endorsed by the interim LVEP Advisory Board and VisitEngland, the strategy sets out a bold vision for the region’s future to ensure it is well positioned to succeed in a competitive and dynamic tourism landscape.
The visitor economy plays a crucial role in Sussex, accounting for more than 14% of all jobs in the region. The industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the impact of Covid-19. A joined-up approach focused on harnessing the power of cross-county collaboration to support the sector’s recovery and foster growth has led to the formation of the East Sussex, Brighton & Hove and West Sussex LVEP.
The strategy aims to enhance the economic, social and environmental value of the local visitor economy, targeting a significant increase from its current 2024 value of £5 billion to £7.5 billion by 2034. Guided by the principles of partnership, collaboration, inclusivity and sustainability, the strategy marks a shift in focus from visitor volume to sustainable growth. This approach seeks to establish Sussex as a destination that resonates with modern visitors while supporting local businesses and communities in offering outstanding, authentic experiences.
The success of the strategy hinges on a pan-Sussex collaborative approach that unites stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. Local destinations, districts and boroughs, and businesses will all play a pivotal role in shaping a destination that is vibrant, competitive, and regenerative. By working together, stakeholders can ensure the long-term benefits of tourism are widely felt across the region as a whole for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
The strategy comes ahead of the establishment of a Sussex and Brighton Mayoral Strategic Authority, following the announcement that the area is on the government’s Devolution Priority Programme.
To drive the vision in this strategy forward, the LVEP is recruiting a permanent Advisory Board, with an open recruitment starting on 14 February 2025.
The LVEP is seeking industry leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of Sussex’s visitor economy. Board members will play a pivotal role in fostering partnerships, engaging stakeholders across the county and representing Sussex at regional, national and international levels. Their influence will help shape decisions that directly impact the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors, ensuring long-term resilience and growth.
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