English Tourism Week marked with cross-party roundtable

In partnership with the APPG for the Southeast and Gatwick Diamond Growth Gateway, Silverstone Communications convened a Parliamentary Roundtable during English Tourism Week. This cross-party roundtable brought together parliamentarians, senior industry leaders, regional businesses and IVEPs to discuss the role of Southeast England and the Gatwick Diamond as strategic drivers of the national visitor economy.

The roundtable highlighted how the economy and regional identity – bolstered by strong partnerships - are essential to strengthening the visitor economy. The Southeast of England has advantage through its world-class natural assets, global connectivity, and a thriving cultural landscape. It has the tools to become a powerhouse of high-value inbound tourism, however the growth potential hinges on one critical factor: collaboration.

Senior figures collaborated on local solutions for global issues, exploring avenues to facilitate and encourage the visitor economy. While the region’s culture and heritage attract millions annually, there is potential to integrate better connectivity and sustainability across transport and tourism efforts.

Despite these strengths, it was noted that the region’s greater barrier to encourage inbound tourism is interconnectivity and the travel infrastructure. Whether it’s rural accessibility, gaps in transport links, or the complexity of navigating local administrative borders, these barriers reduce the region’s competitive advantage.

National bodies play a crucial role in shaping trade relationships and promoting the UK globally, but local delivery is where value is realised.

With the upcoming Mayoral elections, and the recent green light from the Chancellor to progress devolution, there has never been a more important time to convene and deliver meaningful solutions together.