Some people see culture and arts as a nice to have or available only for those that cannot afford it. It is so much more than that. Our cultural scene, heritage and the arts enrich us all, supporting healthier lives, social mobility, skills and a thriving economy.
Our region has so much to offer. The peaks and dales of Derbyshire and the beauty of the National Park; stunning buildings from our industrial heritage, the legend of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest, Nottingham and Derby theatres, the Playhouse, Buxton Opera House, the birthplace of DH Lawrence and the museums of our heritage.
Data shows that whilst many people in our communities already access the shows, sports and entertainment on offer across our region we are also a destination of choice for those beyond our boundaries.
The visitor economy contributes nearly £5 billion to our Gross Value Add in the East Midlands so it is essential that we recognise it as a key driver for our regional economic growth too.
Making the most of these opportunities needs a Mayor committed to the Visitor Economy as a pillar of our strengths in the region. I will establish a new committee of the Combined Authority to focus on the Visitor Economy, working with the partners across the Arts Council, Department of Culture Media and Sports and most importantly, our local partners such as Visit Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and Marketing Derby and Derbyshire. Together we will map out all we have to offer in the region and working with the Mayor’s transport leads we will create a joined up offer to those who come to visit our brilliant cities, towns and communities.
My previous experience in leading the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Film Industry put me at the forefront of lobbying the government to bring in the tax incentives for the film industry in the UK. Over the last 20 years, the UK film industry has grown significantly. I want the East Midlands to have a greater share of that growth and develop some of the opportunities that already exist for location filming by providing the business support and skills for those who want to enter into the industry and be based in our region.
As Mayor, I will work with the private sector to bring the investment into our region for accommodation to support our ambitious plans for more visitors both for business and culture., but I will not forget those who are already providing a warm welcome to our visitors. I will be an ambassador for the region nationally and internationally to promote every aspect of this fantastic region to live, work and visit.