The North East has been selected as the location for a £2.25m tourism project aimed at boosting investment in the region.
A review last year of Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) – known as tourism boards – found there were more than 150 DMOs in England, which the review concluded makes it confusing for tourists and businesses.
In response, the Government is streamlining DMOs by accrediting the top performing organisations. To this end, NewcastleGateshead Initiative in the North East has been selected to lead a pilot in partnership with Visit Northumberland and Visit County Durham working across seven local authority areas. The partnership will receive £2.25m.
Tourism minister Stuart Andrew said: ‘From Hadrian’s Wall to Durham Cathedral and the bright lights of Newcastle, the North East has much to offer tourists from around the world, but we want to go further and attract even more visitors.
‘We are looking at what more we can do to streamline the way the region’s tourism bodies work together, improve the region’s offer and the way it markets itself.
‘With £2.25m in funding, we hope the North East can be a pioneer for other areas in unlocking its potential and putting its best foot forward.’
Sarah Green, CEO, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, commented: ‘This pilot is an incredible opportunity to unlock our growth potential in the North East, attracting more visitors, reaching new international markets, creating jobs, growing businesses, attracting investment, and reinforcing local pride in our place.’
