(TAN): Popular visitor destinations across the country will share just over GBP 2.6 million (USD 3.5 million) in funding for projects to improve facilities as part of Scotland’s drive for sustainable tourism, VisitScotland said.
Eleven projects across the country have been recommended for approval — subject to conditions — to receive cash from round four of the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF). Sustainable tourism takes account of its impact on the community and natural surroundings, maximising the positives whilst minimising the negative effects.
Managed by VisitScotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, the RTIF was created to improve the quality of the visitor experience in rural parts of Scotland that have faced pressure on their infrastructure due to an increase in visitor numbers. It aims to reduce the impact of visitor numbers on local communities and facilities and create a more collaborative and sustainable approach to infrastructure provision and long-term maintenance of local facilities for the benefit of communities.
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Round four was open for applications from local authorities and national park authorities, in partnership with their communities, and is aimed at funding infrastructure improvements such as parking with EV charging points and e-bike facilities, campervan facilities – including disposal points – viewpoints and toilet provision.
Business and Tourism Minister Ivan McKee said: “Scotland’s breathtaking natural scenery and rich historical sites attract many visitors and help the local economy. However, this can also put pressure on communities, services, transport and facilities – particularly in rural areas. The Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) is dedicated to helping deal with increasing demand, driving sustainable tourism and increasing visitor experience in rural Scotland. This funding will help our tourism industry as it recovers by supporting the ongoing creation of much needed infrastructure such as new car parks, charging points for vehicles and e-bike facilities at some of our most iconic rural and natural attractions.”
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VisitScotland CEO Malcolm Roughead said: “The Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund is an important part of creating a sustainable tourism model in Scotland. Not only does it improve the visitor experience but enhances access and facilities for the wider community. We all need to play our part in being responsible visitors and these improvement projects will ensure our visitor destinations remain sustainable for years to come.”
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