South of Scotland selected for new sustainable tourism pilot
The South of Scotland has been selected to take part in a new initiative designed to support sustainable tourism across Scotland.
The region is one of four destinations chosen to join VisitScotland's Sustainable Destination Development Project.
The year-long programme will see the key partners across the region’s visitor economy work with VisitScotland and GDS-Movement - a pioneering, data-driven international change agency that acts to catalyse socio-economic and environmental transformation in cities and regions across the world - to undertake an independent assessment of the region's sustainable growth plans.
Participating destinations will receive tailored guidance and practical tools, including clear priorities, action plans and measures to track progress and support long-term sustainable development.
The pilot aims to support the ambition of partners delivering the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy aiming to make the region a year-round rural escape destination bringing long-term benefits for local communities, the local culture and the environment.
Gordon Smith, VisitScotland Destination Development Director said:
“This exciting pilot reflects our commitment to working with industry and partners to make Scotland a more economically, environmentally and socially sustainable destination.
“The visitor economy is a key part of the South of Scotland’s economic success, it’s a region filled with incredible businesses, a rich cultural and natural landscape and immersive experiences.
“Through this programme we want to help support the sustainable growth of tourism in the South of Scotland so that it brings long-term benefits to the people, places and environments found here.”
Garry Legg, Head of Collaboration and Engagement at South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) said:
“The South of Scotland is proud to have been selected for this important pilot, which is a strong endorsement of the region’s ambitions and collaborative approach.
“Through the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy, partners are already working together to grow the visitor economy in a way that benefits our communities, supports local businesses and protects the landscapes, culture and heritage that make the region special.
“This programme will help us sharpen that approach, identify clear priorities and take further practical action to strengthen the South as a sustainable, year-round destination.”
Janie Neumann, Relationship Manager (UK, Ireland), GDS-Movement, said:
“We are delighted to be supporting VisitScotland and participating destinations through this pilot. The project recognises the important role Scotland’s regions play in shaping a more sustainable visitor economy, and the commitment shown by local partners is a strong foundation to build on.
"GDS-Movement works with destinations around the world, but this programme is especially meaningful because it combines international good practice with a strong understanding of Scotland’s tourism landscape. We look forward to working with partners to turn ambition into practical action, strengthen collaboration and support tourism that benefits places over the long term."
VisitScotland's Sustainable Destination Development Project supports the ambitions of Scotland Outlook 2030 and complements the organisation's wider sustainable growth activity. It also aligns with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Destination Framework, supporting a consistent approach to sustainable destination development.
Destinations across Scotland were invited to apply and then successful applications were selected against agreed criteria, including partnership working, strategic alignment and commitment to delivery.
Learning from the pilot will help shape future destination support and development activity.
For more information visit: Sustainable Destination Development Programme | VisitScotland.org