The Rt. Hon Ed Vaizey, MP for Wantage, has been appointed to chair a new Sub-Group focused on driving forward investment in creativity, culture, heritage and tourism in Oxfordshire. Following the successful launch of a new Creativity, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Investment Plan (CCHTIP) by Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP) in July, Ed Vaizey will chair the Sub-Group responsible for overseeing this important initiative.

Individually and collectively, creativity, culture, heritage and tourism contribute significantly to the Oxfordshire economy and support thousands of jobs across the county. The CCHTIP will play a central role in attracting investment and supporting economic growth in these sectors.

The first Culture White Paper in 50 years was published in March 2016 by Ed Vaizey, while he was Minister for Culture & Digital Economy, and his in-depth knowledge and experience in this area will be invaluable in helping shape the future direction and success of Oxfordshire.

Nigel Tipple, Chief Executive of OxLEP, said: “Oxfordshire has a rich and impressive legacy in creativity, culture, heritage and tourism. We have successfully launched our Investment Plan for these sectors in the county, but this was just the beginning. I’m delighted that Ed Vaizey will be chairing our new group focused on how to realise this plan and best develop investment opportunities and innovation to create sustainable growth and prosperity throughout the county.”

Ed Vaizey MP said: “As a local Oxfordshire MP, I am delighted to chair the new sub-group focused on creativity, culture, heritage and tourism in Oxfordshire. Oxfordshire has a world-class cultural and heritage sector and I look forward to working with the group to help develop a strategy for investment and growth across the county.”

Councillor Lorraine Lindsay-Gale, Oxfordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Property, Cultural & Community Services said: “I am delighted that Ed Vaizey will chair this new sub-group which will drive forward the £44.5m of investment potential identified in Oxfordshire’s Creativity, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (CCHT) Investment Plan, to build upon the vibrancy and success of these sectors within Oxfordshire’s economy.

“Ed’s considerable experience and passion for CCHT industries, makes him ideally placed to champion the county’s incredible cultural offer and ensure it retains its high profile on the world stage.  Promoting the cultural elements of Oxfordshire’s successful economy is vital to the future prosperity of our part of the world and also to maintain our unique identity.”

The first meeting of the Sub-Group is due to take place in October. For more information visit http://www.oxfordshirelep.org.uk/content/cchtip