Community gets involved in site development

29.AUG.08

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN SITE DEVELOPMENT & MANAGEMENT

“In considering the purpose of visitor attractions within a destination it is important not only to consider the views of visitors and how they might be attracted and catered for.{{more}} The needs of the local population must also be met and may indeed play a more significant role in the success of the attraction, particularly in rural settings, where their support for repeat visits, staffing, recommendation and participation may be vital. There is also the issue of social inclusion to be considered, to encourage cultural awareness within the local population and meet educational objectives. The maintenance of specific cultural identities and practices can often be achieved via the involvement of those from the local population.” [Source: Managing Visitor Attractions – New Directions, Edited by Alan Fyall, Brian Garrod & Anna Leask.]

This concept of community involvement in site development and management is an integral part of the approach being used in developing the various sites and attractions and in preparing groups to be actively involved in the management of the sites and attractions after the project ends on December 31st, 2009.

In the case of the Vermont Nature Trail, the Buccament Development Organisation, formed in 1994, is working closely with the Project’s Community Adviser, Christobel Ashton. Members of the BDO include Leroy Isaacs, Morris Prescott, Othneal Browne and Amour Jackson. Two of the objectives of the BDO are: 1) To mobilize the community of the Buccament Valley to become active participants in the issues and projects concerning the district that would enhance sustainable community development; and 2) To aid in the development of education, sports and culture in the community. The organization has been involved in sports, environmental and poverty reduction/livelihood projects covers the Buccament Valley, Vermont, Retreat, Rillan Hill, Penniston, Cane Grove. The BDO is also looking at the possible development of Table Rock as a visitor

attraction.

Assistance to Community Groups will be offered by the Tourism Development Project in Business Management, Record Keeping/Accounting, Computer Skills, Project Management, Safety and Security, Hospitality, Conflict Management & Interpersonal Relationships, and Leadership. Assistance will take the form of training workshops.