This framework provides a comprehensive roadmap—co-created with industry for Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs), local authority tourism teams and other organisations —for strategies that foster sustainable growth, social value, and environmental regeneration across North East England. As we mark this milestone, we’re looking back on the progress that’s been made, the partners who have stepped forward, and the shared ambition to build a visitor economy that truly makes a difference.

A year of progress

Over the past 12 months, businesses, local authorities, and partners have embraced regenerative practices that go beyond sustainability. partners across the region have made significant strides:

• Welcomed new Green Tourism members - 68 organisations have received funded memberships, with 33 already achieving certification.

• Sustainable events: The launch of our Sustainable Events Toolkit, supported by coaching from BeaconHouse Events, has helped venues and suppliers reduce waste and embed regenerative practice.

• Transport: The first active travel corridor is launching this autumn, connecting visitors and communities in new, low-carbon ways.

• Global recognition: Durham and Newcastle have climbed in the GDS-Index global sustainability rankings, with Newcastle climbing 16 places achieving one of the top ten DMO score improvements worldwide.

• Launched practical toolkits and resources, including the Everybody Welcome accessibility guide and a sustainable events toolkit.

• Innovative business initiatives, such as BeaconHouse Events’ food redistribution trial with Olio and supply chain roundtables.

• Promoted inclusion and accessibility through campaigns like Purple Tuesday, delivered with partners including Lumo.

• Showcased local authority leadership: Durham’s new Destination Management Plan; Gateshead’s Tyne Derwent Way and Chopwell Pump Track projects; and community festivals such as High Spen and Blackhall Mill, alongside the cultural programme Beats, Meets & Eats.

Stories that inspire 

Destination North East England has worked with Ynot and presenter Laura Middleton to create a Stories from North East England: Travel that Makes a Difference. This is a series of short videos uncovering how visitor attractions and places to stay in North East England are driving positive transformation for people and places in the region. Join us to meet the people behind the scenes by clicking here.

Looking ahead 

One year on, our commitment remains clear: tourism in the North East should leave a positive legacy. Over the next year, we will continue to work with partners across the region to grow the framework, share learning, and inspire action.

A new handbook and training resources will be launching soon, equipping businesses and individuals with tools for meaningful careers in the visitor economy.

Together, we can ensure that every visitor, every business, and every community benefits from travel that makes a difference.