The Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent LVEP will operate alongside other accredited bodies including neighbouring LVEPS; Birmingham, Solihull & The Black Country; Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby; and Marketing Cheshire.

As well as achieving a nationally recognised official status, LVEPs will provide strong leadership and management of their destinations taking responsibility for the growth, prosperity and sustainability of the visitor economy.

The partnerships will work together with the public and private sector and help shape and deliver national strategy and activities.

Their important role will be promoted across government and national agencies, ensuring the local visitor economy is an active and valued contributor to levelling up and the wider economy.

Cllr Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet lead for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council said: “Today we welcome the news from VisitEngland that we have been able to secure LVEP accreditation for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

“There has been huge effort taken by operators in Staffordshire and the Local Authorities coming together to promote and safeguard our Visitor Economy.

“We are proud to continue this commitment to deliver one of England’s largest LVEPs. Recruitment to the next LVEP board will start imminently.”

Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Economic Development, Culture and Sport, said: “Stoke-on-Trent is a great city at the heart of a beautiful county. Securing LVEP status will enable us to capitalise on Stoke-on-Trent’s enhanced cultural status to create a vibrant and compelling cultural tourism offer that makes a significant contribution to the city and county’s economic growth.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) are at the heart of transforming the visitor economy landscape in England, and we are delighted to welcome the Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent LVEP onto the national programme.

“We look forward to continuing our close collaboration, providing ongoing support including a dedicated VisitEngland regional development lead.

“Having the right national and local infrastructure in place to grow our visitor economy, in an inclusive, accessible and sustainable way, will ensure England continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors.”

The LVEPs will be able to bid for funding, business support opportunities, and will work closely with national government via a dedicated VisitEngland regional development lead.

They will also have access to expert advice and training programmes in a range of areas, including accessibility, sustainability and business support.