Abstract
The Western Isles of Scotland have been recognised as being amongst the most disadvantaged and economically fragile regions of the UK. This vulnerability is derived in part from their physical isolation and compounded by an over reliance upon particular industries, limited employment opportunities and an inadequate transport infrastructure. Tourism and leisure activities remain critical to the island’s economy and are central in supporting retail and supplier businesses as well as hospitality and accommodation services. At the same time, the arrival of significant numbers of visitors from the mainland each year, impacts upon the lives of local residents. This paper is based upon a series of empirical studies undertaken by the authors and details the competing tensions that exist between commercial income generation and the maintenance of cultural and lifestyle values. It suggests that while the positive impact of tourism may outweigh other, more negative concerns, island life is not immune from the pressures of the market. These externalities manifest themselves in the spheres of both consumption and production. The paper concludes that while the Western Isles remain spatially and temporally unique, the challenges faced by the local population has broader, global applicability.
Presenters
Paul FreathyProfessor, Marketing and Retail, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Critical Issues in Tourism and Leisure Studies
KEYWORDS
Scotland Western Isles Economic Need Social Tensions
