Somerset and Exmoor have been officially recognized as premier tourism destinations after receiving Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status from VisitEngland. This esteemed accreditation brings together Somerset Council, Exmoor National Park Authority, Visit Exmoor, and Visit Somerset in a unified partnership dedicated to enhancing the region’s visitor economy and promoting sustainable tourism growth.
With Somerset Council serving as the accountable body, and Emma Thomasson, chief executive of Visit Exmoor, acting as the strategic liaison with VisitEngland, this collaboration marks a major milestone in boosting tourism and strengthening local economic development. Tourism plays a critical role in the region, generating over £1.1 billion annually and supporting more than 20,000 jobs. In rural parts of Exmoor, tourism accounts for over two-thirds of employment, underscoring its importance to community livelihood.
As part of the national LVEP network, Somerset and Exmoor will engage closely with the Great Southwest Tourism Partnership and neighboring LVEPs in Cornwall and Devon, including North Devon’s Exmoor area. This strategic alliance fosters cooperation that benefits the entire southwest region.
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A new advisory board comprising industry leaders, sector representatives, and local ambassadors will guide the partnership’s future direction. This diverse group will focus on driving sustainable growth, supporting businesses ranging from micro-enterprises to larger operators, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences across Somerset and Exmoor.