The Role of the Public Sector in Rural Tourism: A Respondent Perspective

Briedenhann, Jennifer (2008) The Role of the Public Sector in Rural Tourism: A Respondent Perspective. Current Issues in Tourism, 10 (6). pp. 584-607. ISSN 1368-3500

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Abstract

Using a four round Delphi survey, a focus group and semi-structured interviews, this study investigates the respondent perspective of the public sector role in providing an environment conducive to the development of the rural tourism sector in Britain and South Africa. Although South African respondents generally perceived a greater need of support for the rural tourism sector than did their British counterparts, many of the problems, concerns and frustrations that emerged from the study were similar. Respondents perceived the public sector as ‘leader’, ‘strategist’, ‘mentor’, ‘co-ordinator’, ‘champion’ and ‘partner’ in their endeavour to build the rural tourism sector. Grappling with the problems of uplifting the quality, viability and communal benefit of rural tourism is seen as a futile exercise if the facilitatory platform of rational policy, planning and support conducive to the sustainability of the sector, is not in place. Above all local authorities are seen as ‘the enabler’ of successful rural tourism projects that diversify the local economy and generate employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. However, whilst there is respondent acknowledgement of the role played by the public sector, there is evidence of widespread disenchantment with the efficacy with which this role is fulfilled.

Item Type:	Article
Depositing User:	ULCC Admin
Date Deposited:	28 May 2012 13:29
Last Modified:	11 Jul 2022 08:53
URI:	https://bnu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/9878

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