Berkshire on the map as Reading awarded national tourism status

20th February 2025

Berkshire has been put back on the map this winter after its local councils, including Reading, achieved accreditation as a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) from VisitEngland.

It means the Partnership including Reading is now part of VisitEngland’s new national structure – directly connecting it with the national tourist board and UK government and giving local businesses a bigger say and visibility in policy and funding decisions.

The successful application from the six local authorities in Berkshire is the direct result of an 18-month project in partnership with Berkshire businesses and industry leaders, proving the region is home to world class destinations and leading the way on economic development and sustainability in line with national priorities.

As part of Visit Reading/REDA’s commitment to working with local businesses and other partners to secure investment, this is the first time in over 20 years that Berkshire’s partners driving economic success have been recognised nationally.

The LVEP will now be led by VisitWindsor, the Royal Borough’s tourism department, working in partnership with Reading’s Economy & Destination Agency (REDA), councils in Bracknell Forest, Slough, West Berkshire, Wokingham and Reading, alongside VisitNewbury, landscape management organisations, Berkshire Film Office, education providers, and community groups. While the decision does not come with funding from VisitEngland, the status will give Reading and the partners access to development and funding opportunities that will only be available for those with the accreditation. It will also link the Berkshire partnership with other LVEPs with clear targets for growth and a strong emphasis on embedding sustainability, accessibility and support for businesses.

Nigel Horton-Baker, Chief Executive of REDA, Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency, the tourism lead body for Reading, said: “The creation of the Berkshire LVEP will help put Reading’s tourism attractions and businesses on the national tourism map and join up tourism destinations across Berkshire to provide a more holistic visitor experience.

“Tourism is worth £330 million to Reading’s economy, employing over 5000 people. Being part of the national tourism framework and working more closely with other destinations in Berkshire will allow Reading to grow its business and leisure visitor economy and enable us to develop a better visitor experience and business support service for our many visitor businesses.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “The Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEP) programme is transforming the visitor economy landscape in England, supporting its growth in a more inclusive, accessible and sustainable way and I am delighted to welcome Berkshire.

 “Working together, the LVEPs are simplifying our tourism landscape, ensuring England continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors.  As Berkshire is established as an LVEP, VisitEngland will provide ongoing support including a dedicated regional lead.”