A series of local workshops that will enable town planners and the tourism industry to work better together will take place in eight towns and cities across England over the coming months, tourism minister Shaun Woodward announced today.

The workshops are designed to promote the government’s Good Practice Guide on Planning for Tourism, which aims to ensure that town planners know the value of their local tourism industries, and how to help them prosper.

They will also work the other way, by giving the tourism industry a better insight into how planners work.

“This is a great opportunity to share what does or doesn’t work, what could be improved and to encourage suggestions from stakeholders on how this can be achieved,” said Woodward.

“This is particularly important as we prepare to maximise the opportunities that the 2012 Games will offer.

“The planning system plays an important role in helping to protect the environment and is crucial in ensuring that the tourism industry can develop and thrive in a sustainable manner.”

The scheme has received backing from Business in Sport and Leisure (BISL). Brigid Simmonds, BISL chief executive, said: “BISL and other members of the Tourism Alliance are grateful to the DCMS for taking on promotion of the guide.

“With such a clear role in the local economy, it is vital that more local authorities consider the contribution of tourism in a more positive way and this guide is an excellent mechanism for achieving this.”

The first workshop will take place in Cambridge on 14 May and confirmed future events will take place on 16 July in Bolton and 23 July in Bristol. Further dates will be announced in due course. Details: www.culture.gov.uk