Three new tourism websites showcasing Liverpool, Southport and Wirral are launched financed by public and private sector funding. Tony McDonough reports

A trio of new tourism websites will aim to attract more people to Liverpool city region.

Following the success of Eurovision, which attracted an estimated 500,000 extra visitors to the city region, a new push is being launched to build on that legacy.

Three new tourism websites have been launched – visitliverpool.com, visitsouthport.com and visitwirral.com

Led by economic development agency Growth Platform, with digital marketing agency SimpleView, the websites have been delivered through a combination of public and private funding.

It is hoped the sites will attract millions of users each year. They are designed to inspire visitors by showing the region’s attractions, culture, sport, shopping and visitor experiences.

These destination management organisation (DMO) websites have been transformed with a clear focus on meeting the increasing needs and expectations of modern travellers.

Features of the sites include an integrated booking service – which offers both bespoke and flexible bookings – for accommodation, attractions, events and restaurants.

They also include interactive maps, guides to download and a section for writers to blog about their time and experiences in the region.

And there are articles on anything from the collections of art museums and galleries to recommendations on where to watch the football and the best Instagram locations.

Donna Howitt, chair of the project board and place strategy director at Liverpool ONE, said: “During the past decade Liverpool city region has witnessed a significant rise in popularity as a visitor destination.

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“There has been an increase in overseas visitors, those on domestic trips as well as an increase in business trips.

“To build on this we are aiming to transform the region’s popularity as a ‘year-round’ visitor destination and showcasing our unique assets and characteristics in the most effective way is a significant step towards this.

“The websites for Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral are the first touchpoint for most visitors, so it is vital we get this right in terms of navigation, engagement and content.”