Unknown makes unloved

Towards practical interventions in resident involvement in the domain of tourism

Involvement and support among residents are essential for the sustainable destination development of the Netherlands. Besides governments and entrepreneurs, it is primarily residents who shape a destination. Many municipalities in the Netherlands therefore wish to involve their residents in tourism development. A practical framework is essential for efficiently and effectively implementing participation processes. This research project focuses on the city center of Utrecht and aims to provide insights that are also valuable for other destinations in the Netherlands.

Reason

The guideline Destination Management and Perspective 2030 outlines the collective ambition to strive towards the Netherlands as a conscious destination. In order to sustainable develop the Netherlands as a destination, it is crucial to have the involvement and support of residents. After all, it is not just governments and entrepreneurs, but also residents who shape a destination.

Numerous destination areas, such as Utrecht, are continuously searching for the most effective way to involve residents and engage in an open dialogue regarding tourism. By initiating conversations with various stakeholders and considering their diverse perspectives, concerns, and opportunities, a common goal can be established.

Problem solution

The project aims to provide practical insights into the utilization of specific types of interventions in participation processes, while considering the desirability and feasibility of involving residents in tourism.

The problem statement of this research is:
“In what way can interventions aimed at resident empowerment (specifically: involvement or participation) be most effectively utilized to positively influence residents’ sentiment and attitude towards tourism?”

This projectteam consists of:

• NHL Stenden / European Tourism Futures Institute
• Breda University of Applied Sciences
• HZ Kenniscentrum Kusttoerisme
• Utrecht Marketing
• Utrecht University
• Gemeente Utrecht

Approach

The research starts with a quantitative study (baseline measurement) involving residents of Utrecht using the RETS model. This model comprises a validated questionnaire with various statements regarding support for tourism. This initial study forms the groundwork for the selection of 32 participants willing to delve deeper into the topic of tourism in four different focus groups. Potential interventions are tested within these various focus groups with residents. Subsequently, a new measurement is conducted among the participants to assess the extent to which the dialogue and information provision may have influenced support for tourism.

Results

Currently, the baseline measurement is being conducted using the RETS model. Based on the initial results, it appears that there is a considerable interest in (greater) involvement in the development and implementation of tourism policy, and that there is an overall positive outlook on tourism. Read the rapport here.

This research project runs from September 2023 till June 2024