Tourism's crucial role highlighted as Chester businesses hold talks with MP

Tourism Leaders from Chester have met with Samantha Dixon, Labour MP for Chester North and Neston, and Visit England representatives to examine ways to build and strengthen the city’s tourism economy.

Monday’s (Sept 16) meeting, at the Chester Grosvenor hotel, also included council representatives, the Business Improvement District, Destination Chester and local economic development agency Enterprise Cheshire and Warrington.  The critical importance of tourism to the city’s economy and its role within the One City Plan was emphasised, as was the need to use creative methods to continually keep Chester in the minds of potential visitors.

Jamie Christon, CEO of Chester Zoo, who chaired Monday’s meeting said:

“It was valuable to hear Sam Dixon’s perspective on tourism’s importance as part of the government’s growth strategy and to hear local businesses’ Chester priorities. We had an extremely positive discussion and have a great basis on which to continue working together.”

The group plans to meet again within the next few months to maintain momentum and explore new opportunities.

Pictured (all left to right)

Front Row: Nicola Said (North West and West Midlands Regional Lead, Visit England), Jamie Christon (Chester Zoo CEO), Samantha Dixon MP

Middle Row: Colin Potts (Chair, Destination Chester), Louise Stewart (CEO, Chester Racecourse), Scott Rankin (General Manager, Hotel Indigo), Gemma Davies (Director Economy and Housing, Cheshire West and Chester Council), Annabele Turpin (CEO, Storyhouse)

Back Row: Cllr Richard Beacham (Cheshire West and Chester Council), Philip Cox (Chief Executive, Enterprise Cheshire and Warrington), Cllr Adam Langan (MP’s Office), Carl Critchlow (Chief Executive, Chester BID), James Pownall (General Manager, Rowton Hall Hotel), Carolyn Bruce (Executive Director, Chester Cathedral), Rosie Shimell (Policy and Public Affairs, Visit Britain)

Picture Credit - Enterprise Cheshire and Warrington