In three years time the world’s greatest sporting event takes place in London. It’s on our doorstep so how is Sussex planning to use this once in a lifetime opportunity to take advantage of the accompanying media spotlight? Read more…….

The 2012 games will bring the eyes of the world to Britain – in particular to London and its surrounding areas. This is a one off opportunity for Sussex to maximise international media interest and promote the county as a quality destination of choice.

The South East Partnership 2012 Visitor Economy Plan, led by Tourism South East (TSE), identified the ‘Gatwick corridor’ as one of five areas where there is the highest potential to secure Games related (athletes, officials, sponsors) and Games motivated (people seeing and reading about the UK as a result of media coverage) tourism and cultural benefits.

Sussex Tourism Partnership is looking to generate increased visitor numbers, media interest and profile in the years leading up to 2012. Plans are at an early stage and activity will concentrate on:

• Business Tourism – Games sponsors reward their main customers and best buyers. In a seven day visit to the UK they may spend one day at the games; that leaves six days to fill with an interesting, memorable itinerary. STP will work with these companies to gain attention and showcase ideas, so we don’t miss out to other areas. 
  
• Visitor Information – we aim to have translated text available on VisitSussex
  
• Industry information – Gatwick Airport, the port of Newhaven and Shoreham airport are entry gateways. What is the current visitor experience at each gateway and what work is needed to support or improve the visitor welcome?
  
• Marketing and Promotion – How quickly can journalists be persuaded that Sussex has a great story to tell that is interesting for an international audience – and will the hotels, attractions, restaurants and transport providers assist with reduced rates in order to benefit from promotion?

Welcome to West Sussex-Ahead of the Game

This site offers news, features and information on making the most of the London 2012 Games - visit us to keep in touch with what’s going on across West Sussex.