In recognising that tourism is the Highlands biggest industry, members of the Councils Planning Environment and Development Committee today agreed funding to VisitScotland of up to 270k in 2013/14. They also agreed that a further 80,000 be used to both deliver services directly by the Councils tourism team and to provide discretionary funding to business or community groups undertaking tourism projects.
Sustainable tourism is one of Scotlands key growth sectors and is the Highlands most important industry. Latest full year figures (2011) show in the Highlands it is responsible for generating 748m of direct expenditure, a further 175m of indirect expenditure and supporting over 18,000 direct jobs.
VisitScotland receives central government funding for national activities and the money from The Highland Council will go towards the cost of providing local services that would not take place without this support. This includes regional marketing activity and running a network of VisitScotland Information Centres.
The council has recently carried out a review of its tourism funding which showed that on top of the annual grant given to VisitScotland, in the last five years it has provided over 213k for projects and initiatives to Highland tourism groups.
The Programme for The Highland Council gives a commitment that the council will work with the Scottish Government, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, the private sector and partners to maximise the tourism potential of the Highland area. It also states that the Council will review how its cash support for tourism is allocated, working with partners to ensure appropriate and effective support is offered to promote unique Highland identities, traditional sports and culture.
Almost a fifth of the 4.2 billion tourism brings to the Scottish economy is generated in the Highlands.
Chairman Councillor Thomas Pragg said: Tourism has played a key role in our economy for so long we are in danger of taking it for granted. Our spectacular scenery and distinct culture along with a wide range of attractions and activities makes us well placed to capture much of the business from both overseas and UK based visitors. To do this effectively we must target our resources and make sure we get the best use of every pound we spend.
It has been very worthwhile to review how we do things as sustainable tourism is becoming very competitive and technology is changing how visitors access information. The role of Visitor Centres is going to change but we still need a very visible presence in our communities. I also feel there is work to do to boost the image of having a career in the service industry.
Photo
Wick with Mackays Hotel in bottom right
Photographer - Bill Fernie
