Research statement
Small seaside tourism communities face development constraints
Our research aims to delve into the intricacies of the problems faced by small tourism communities, particularly those that are ecologically fragile and lack adequate infrastructure. These communities, while charming and picturesque, often struggle to provide basic services due to their limited size and resources. As a result, the negative impact of tourism on the local area becomes more apparent.
Public transport is very limiting for tourists and does not meet their needs
An important issue arising from these conditions is traffic congestion. The inadequacy of the road network and transport system in these areas results in heavy traffic during the tourist season. The resulting congestion not only impedes the movement of locals, but also reduces the overall experience of tourists.
Shared transport systems are under-utilised
In addition, the low usage of shared transport compounds the challenges faced by these communities. Despite the potential benefits of shared transport, such as reducing congestion and minimising the ecological footprint, a lack of awareness and accessibility hinders its adoption. This perpetuates reliance on private vehicles and exacerbates the strain on already limited infrastructure.
Our research seeks to reveal these hidden dangers that not only affect the physical environment, but also shape the social fabric of these communities. By investigating the interplay between tourism development, community well-being and ecological sustainability, we aim to propose practical solutions to mitigate negative impacts and promote balanced development of these small tourism communities. Through our research, we hope to contribute to the development and empowerment of local communities and promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit the environment and its inhabitants.
