Andrew Billingham, chief executive of YTL Arena Bristol, has been appointed chair of Visit West, the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) dedicated to promoting tourism in the West of England. This appointment marks a significant step as Visit West reinforces its commitment to tourism growth and regional economic regeneration.
Visit West, a pioneering UK-accredited LVEP formed in 2023, operates as a not-for-profit public-private partnership. It collaborates closely with businesses, local authorities, and the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority—now co-owner alongside Business West—to champion the region’s vibrant visitor economy. Through its initiatives such as Visit Bristol, Visit Bath, the Meet Bristol & Bath Convention Bureau, and partnerships with leisure and business event sectors, Visit West plays a pivotal role in expanding the tourism landscape.
“I’m honoured to lead Visit West at such an exciting time,” said Billingham. “The West of England offers an exceptional mix—from breathtaking coastlines and rich rural heritage to lively urban centres and iconic attractions. Our mission is to unify public and private efforts to fuel sustainable tourism growth that benefits local communities. With tourism contributing £2.5 billion and supporting over 45,000 jobs locally, the potential is immense.”
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Kathryn Davis, chief executive of Visit West, expressed strong support for the new chair, highlighting his expertise in event and venue management and his dedication to the region. “Andrew’s leadership will be instrumental as we strive to enhance visitor experiences, bolster local businesses, and promote sustainable and inclusive tourism,” she commented.
West of England Mayor Helen Godwin also praised the appointment, underscoring Visit West’s integral role in the region’s cultural vibrancy. “The West is a magnet for visitors, drawn by events like the Jane Austen Festival, the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Greatest Dog Show on Earth, and the Weston-super-Mare Carnival. The timing of Andrew’s appointment is perfect as we launch our regional Growth Strategy. Our combined authority is committed to backing key sectors like tourism, which supports tens of thousands of local jobs while attracting major events for residents and visitors alike.”
Andrew Billingham has been a member of the Visit West board since 2020 and was recently named among Bristol’s most influential figures by Bristol24/7. He played a vital role in delivering the 27,000-capacity Ashton Gate Stadium, now hosting key fixtures for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, including England’s semi-final against France on October 25. He also leads the development of the eagerly awaited YTL Arena Complex, a 20,000-capacity live music and entertainment venue set to become a landmark in Bristol’s cultural scene.