Visitor Information and Interpretation
Strategic need
The needs of visitors for information is closely allied to the survey
findings described in the previous section 7.1 in helping visitors
find out about access opportunities in the area, and giving confidence
about where they can go. Promoting sensitive and responsible use is
also a key aspect in assisting local estates by reducing the risk
of conflicts with other land management and sporting activities, as
well as disturbance to wildlife which sometimes occur.
Constraints and opportunities
Other national and regional bodies have wider responsibilities for
disseminating visitor information, such as Scottish Natural Heritage,
Aberdeen and Grampian Tourist Board and Aberdeenshire Council. The
aim is not to overlap their important role but to provide practical
local information which goes beyond what is currently provided.
Faced with such an array of visitor information, it is important
that any UDAT literature is carefully targeted at a point where
visitors are most likely to use it, i.e. through the local tourist
information centres, shops and main visitor access points to the
area. A further challenge is keeping up to date with information
which is constantly changing, and the use of digital information
through a website may a be more rapid means of responding to such
changes. Vision
The vision is for a well-integrated and high quality resource of
visitor information about public access to Upper Deeside particularly
for first time visitors, which can be readily obtained at the source
of enquiry or on arrival through a variety of media. This information
will be particularly directed at low ground opportunities as well
as raising awareness about minimising impact upon the environment
and local estate activities. Linked with the provision of low ground
facilities, the aim will be to provide high quality and appropriately
designed on site interpretation at some key attractions but not
to intrude upon the countryside with a clutter of signage. The aim
is to provide suitable interpretation allied to the low ground infrastructure
over the next five years. Rationale
Stimulating and enjoyable on site interpretation and other media
will raise awareness about the natural and cultural heritage and
foster a greater understanding and responsibility about its use.
It may also help to stimulate further interest in visiting and finding
out more about the area. Better and more widely available interpretive
media may encourage visitors to stay longer and improve visitor
experience. This is complementary to better provision of low level
access. Priorities
UDAT will continue to use conventional media such as guided walk
and cycle leaflets, information packs and mapboards as a means of
communication, but will also explore new and innovative ways of
disseminating information including the use of new technology and
the internet. This might include the development a website and an
interactive display based at local tourist information centres.
It is likely that these latter elements would be developed in partnership
with other key agencies with a responsibility for tourism.
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