Views sought on benefits and pressures of cruise tourism in Shetland
VIEWS are being sought on the cruise tourism market in Shetland by consultants working for Shetland Islands Council.
They are seeking input from local businesses and organisations to estimate the economic impact of cruise ship visits, as well as challenges and opportunities for communities to maximise the benefits.
The study is being carried out by McGregor Solutions, with consultants Anne Byers and Naomi Bremner in Shetland meeting a wide range of businesses, visitor attractions, and community groups.
It hopes to show how visitor activity translates into income for local businesses, where the benefits are being felt, as well understanding some of the pressures created by cruise tourism.
SIC economic development manager Tommy Coutts said they had never assessed cruise tourism at a local level before.
“As cruise becomes more prominent in our tourism sector, both in the main ports of Lerwick and Scalloway but also increasingly in our smaller islands, we need to understand its current economic impact, challenges, and opportunities.
“Commissioning this study to determine the socio-economic impact of the cruise sector in Shetland will be a significant step in our understanding of the current market.
“It will also help us to better support communities in future, to maximise benefits whilst minimising any negative impacts.”
The online survey is currently open until the end of September. All responses will be treated in the strictest confidence and only reported in aggregate form, so no individual, business or organisation can be identified.
Anyone who would like to speak to the study consultants, or request a paper copy of the survey, is asked to contact Anne Byers at McGregor Solutions through anne@mcgregorsolutions.co.uk or 07917 127151.
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