VisitEngland’s chief executive, James Berresford, has welcomed increased regional powers highlighted in the Queen’s Speech yesterday (May 27).
The new legislation outlined will enable cities to bid for an elected mayor, with more powers over areas such as planning, transport and regional development.
He said: “This is great news for our cities and a fantastic opportunity for tourism, which contributes £106bn to the UK economy. Regional and local authorities now have greater flexibility to prioritise policies that could support tourism leading to increased economic growth.”
Berresford also welcomed additional new measures outlined yesterday to help SMEs cut red tape, which will save business “at least £10bn” over the parliament. He said: “Many tourism businesses across the country are SMEs so we welcome the introduction of the new Small Business Conciliation Service which aims to improve the business rates system.”