A new Strategy has been published for 2010-15. This sets out our vision for sustainable tourism in the Forest of Bowland AONB, and the aims for achieving this.

Our vision for sustainable tourism in the Forest of Bowland AONB is that:

'By 2015 the Forest of Bowland AONB will be a recognised destination for sustainable tourism. It will still be a hidden gem that visitors can make their personal discovery, and where they can enjoy high quality, sustainable and accessible activities and accommodation for all – characterised by the commitment and passion of business owners for this amazing and magical landscape.'

In order to achieve this vision we have identified seven strategic aims which will further develop the identity, products and partnerships of the Forest of Bowland AONB:

1. Develop a strong brand identity for the Forest of Bowland AONB as a destination

2. Develop and promote tourism products which reflect and celebrate the Forest of Bowland AONB's sense of place

3. Develop and promote products which encourage quiet, accessible and quality enjoyment of the Forest of Bowland AONB

4. Support the area's tourism businesses to develop high quality and sustainable business practices, and to maintain a network of sustainable businesses

5. Support local communities and volunteers to ensure engagement in tourism planning, and to generate community benefit from tourism activity in the Forest of Bowland AONB

6. Develop and maintain partnerships supporting the development and management of sustainable tourism in the Forest of Bowland AONB

7. Develop strategies to improve the collection and analysis of tourism related data so that informed decisions can be made by all partners

This Strategy and its accompanying Action Plan has now been adopted by the Sustainable Tourism sub group of the AONB's Joint Advisory Committee, and they have also committed to delivering and monitoring the action plan over the next five years.

The Strategy and Action Plan have now been submitted to Europarc as part of our re application for the European Charter for sustainable tourism in protected areas, which we hope to be re awarded in 2010.

Downloadable documents:

• Sustainable Tourism Strategy (pdf, 1.63mb)
• Action Plan 2010-15 (pdf, 91.3kb)
• Appendices (pdf, 5.64mb)
  Maps:
• Location of accommodation providers (pdf, 1.13mb)
• Location of sustainable tourism business network members (pdf, 1.24mb)
• Location of public rights of way (pdf, 1.36mb)
• Location of pubs, cafes, restaurants and visitor attractions (pdf, 1.21mb)