Rural Scotland People, Prosperity and Partnership

Tourism

The key challenges which face Scottish tourism apply to the whole country. It is a diffuse industry, spreading across a number of economic activities and built on many businesses, of which a good number are small.

We reviewed support to tourism in 1993 and as a result published a National Strategic Plan for Scottish Tourism in November 1994 following widespread consultation with the industry. It sets out a framework for action that can be adopted by local interests and adapted to their needs. Its importance is in the focus it gives to the key issues. It proposes as its main objectives to:

  • create new and improve existing facilities

  • promote tourism in a more effective and co-ordinated way at all levels

  • enhance skills

The Tourism and the Environment Task Force has been established reflecting the opportunities to develop and promote more imaginative holiday packages based on the natural environment. A growing interest in the environment, natural history and remote places has produced a demand for "green holidays" which Scotland is well placed to serve.

We welcome your comments on this site.
Reviewed 21 April 1997