Bright future for Loch Lomond national park tourism

Jul 3 2009 by Tina Kemp, Lennox Herald (main ed)

TOURISM in Loch Lomondside is toughing out the recession.

That was the message last week from Mike Cantlay, convener of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, who described the industry as the “bedrock” of Scotland’s economy.

Mr Cantlay was speaking at the launch of a new tourism network at the national park’s headquarters in Balloch, where 60 businesses discussed the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry during the credit crunch.

He said: “Tourism in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs seems to be shaping up well this year. The surprise is that people are surprised at all. Tourism is resilient whenever times get tough in Britain.

"People have a tendency to not go so far afield and this is great news for the national park and local businesses. Tourism is a long term, sustainable business for Scotland. In many ways, it is the bedrock of Scotland’s economy.”

Most businesses reported an increase in visitor numbers compared to this time last year with more last minute bookings being taken.

Fiona Logan, chief executive of the park authority, said a busy summer was expected and the ranger service would be in key hot spots across the whole park from 8pm to 10pm Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

And Elspeth McLachlan, brand and tourism manager said a database was being created to allow easier access to information by visitors.