Professional Documents
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Sustainable Tourism Development: in Regional South Australia
Sustainable Tourism Development: in Regional South Australia
DEVELOPMENT
In Regional South Australia
Discussion paper
November 2002
Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM
DEVELOPMENT
In Regional South Australia
Discussion paper
November 2002
ISBN 1 876702 76 1
FIS 21983
Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Further Information
For further information on this paper please refer to:
www.planning.sa.gov.au
www.tourism.sa.gov.au
@
or contact :
DEBRA TAYLOR
Chief Project Officer
State Policy Branch
Planning SA
Telephone: 8303 0663
Email: taylor.debra@saugov.sa.gov.au
GARTH HEYNEN
Manager Policy
South Australian Tourism Commission
Telephone: 8463 4551
Email: heynen.garth@saugov.sa.gov.au
DEBRA TAYLOR
Chief Project Officer
State Policy Branch
Planning SA
GPO Box 1815, Adelaide SA 5001
Email: taylor.debra@saugov.sa.gov.au
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Table of Contents
FOREWORD
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3.0 REALISING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TOURISM APPENDIX 4 TOURISM STRATEGY PLANNING AT THE LOCAL
3.1 The Tourism Plan LEVEL
3.2 Planning Strategy for the Development of Regional South
Australia APPENDIX 5 COASTAL TOURISM - BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES
3.3 Tourism growth sectors
3.3.1 Sustainable/nature-based/eco-tourism APPENDIX 6 REFERENCES
3.3.2 Wine and food tourism
3.3.3 Rural tourism
3.3.4 Coastal and marine tourism
3.3.5 Outback areas
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Foreword
State and local government are committed to broadening and strengthening the economic base of regional South Australia within
sustainable limits.
South Australia has the capacity to be an inspirational leader in innovative and sustainable tourism.
Tourism is one of the most important industries in our economy and is growing rapidly. It is predicted that the number of tourists visiting
Australia will double by the year 2020. Tourism is an important source of local employment and income generation and is linked to small
business and regional development.
This Discussion Paper sets out the critical issues facing the tourism sector and explores and canvasses the key planning issues affecting the
creation of a development policy framework for sustainable tourism development in Regional South Australia.
In 2001, tourism in South Australia generated $3.4 billion in expenditure and employed 36,800 people full time within the industry.
For South Australia to increase its potential to contribute to regional regeneration through tourism development and grow specialist tourism
markets, a land use planning framework is needed that better aligns policies with the types of growth envisaged for the tourism industry.
The South Australian Tourism Plan 2003-2008, a joint industry/government plan, provides clear purpose and direction to the tourism industry.
This plan aims to harness the opportunities in tourism, by developing South Australia as a ‘speciality’ destination and ensuring that growth and
development is undertaken in a sustainable manner.
The issues in this paper are put forward to stimulate debate, to assist in refining a planning policy approach for tourism development across the
State and is part of this wider process for achieving innovative and sustainable tourism development in South Australia. It is aimed at assisting
tourism growth and benefits for regional areas and communities in South Australia.
Councils, relevant agencies, the tourism industry and other interested persons are invited to be involved in further developing the planning policy
framework for tourism development for regional South Australia.
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Executive Summary
The South Australian Draft Tourism Plan sees South Australia • only some forms of ancillary value-adding activities are currently
becoming an inspirational leader in innovative and sustainable allowed as consent on merit uses. This significantly constrains
tourism. the enhancement of tourism themes
• a primary objective or criterion for assessing development in
This discussion paper considers how new Development Plan policies most rural zones is its contribution to, or potential impact on,
for tourism might be developed and implemented that will assist agricultural production
South Australia to capitalise on its unique assets and tourism • areas of conservation significance or landscape beauty are
opportunities. identified in many Development Plans. However, planning
policies for such zones or districts generally limit opportunities
Expanding upon key themes in tourism growth potential, the paper for appropriate eco-tourism development.
examines the benefits of further tourism development for regional
areas, explores community attitudes to tourism and defines ways of Fostering the development of a new framework for tourism
developing various approaches that will ensure South Australia’s development in South Australia will require co-operation between
natural and cultural resources are conserved. State and Local Government, the community and industry and will
also involve developing planning policies and other mechanisms that
The following issues are explored: provide a well rounded approach to design and management of
tourism development and activities. It is also recognised that
• the nature of tourism growth in South Australia - the different areas within the State require different policy approaches.
opportunities for sustainable development and benefits for
regions Councils are invited to consider and provide comment on the issues
• how best to develop policies that take advantage of in this Discussion Paper along with the potential elements of a
opportunities to achieve strong and sustainable connections tourism development package as discussed in Section 5, including:
between rural activities, wine, food and tourism
• how best to plan for tourism development as a ‘derived use’ • Regional/local strategy planning and council PARs
arising from inherent cultural aspects and/or land values and the • Ministerial PAR including amendments to zones put forward by
unique opportunities that this brings councils
• how to encourage tourism in a manner that allows it to add • Regulation amendments to support the changes
value to an area and preserve the inherent value or • Planning Bulletin
cultural/environmental sensitivity of an area • Developer guide
• whether to introduce a broad policy framework which promotes • Mechanisms for accreditation for tourism developments.
and properly guides sustainable tourism development in a
consistent manner for the whole State The Discussion Paper will be on consultation for 3 months. During
• the role of councils or regional groups of councils in developing this time regional workshops will be undertaken to explore the issues
strategies and policies for tourism in their regions and areas raised in the paper. Written submissions are also invited.
• other mechanisms, such as regulation amendments – referrals
and site analysis planning required with applications for tourism
development, which could support a new policy framework
• design and construction and maintenance of tourism
development to meet or exceed world’s best practice in
sustainable tourism
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Tourism in Perspective
1.0
1.1 TOURISM IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA Other infrastructure supporting visitor stays includes roads, signage,
lookouts, road maps, town and district publications, directories,
Internationally, tourism has grown from 25 million international information boards, and information offices supporting the needs of
travellers in 1950 to 693 million in 2001 and is expected to double visitors.
again by the year 2020.
In addition to direct expenditure, tourism in South Australia supports
Australia, with 5 million international visitors, ranks only 20th out of 36,800 jobs in the tourist industry. It drives about 10 per cent of the
OECD countries, which generate 70 percent of international tourism State’s economic growth through ‘exports’, representing two thirds of
activities and visitors. those generated through all agricultural activity and equivalent to
that generated by the mining sector (but creating twice the number
In 2001, tourism in South Australia generated $3.4 billion in of jobs).
expenditure. Domestic tourism accounts for 80% of South
Australia’s tourism and it is clearly linked to small business and
regional development.
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Tourism in perspective
Sustainable tourism development will meet the present and long- Reflecting Community Values
term needs of hosts and visitors while ensuring the natural and The most effective way to ensure authenticity is to understand,
cultural environment is capable of sustaining such uses and conserve and enhance the values of the community. This means
alternative future uses. representing the past, present and future aspirations of the local
community in a living and dynamic way and achieving a ‘sense of
The characteristics of sustainable tourism are: belonging’.
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Interpretive Value
Because the natural and built environments are the motivations for
travel, sound tourism development entails interpreting natural,
experience of visitors and at the same time helps to diversify the social, historic and ecological features. Value can be added by
economic base of an area. telling the story and explaining wherever possible. This provides a
richer and more rewarding experience for the visitor and can help
Encouraging Niche Opportunities conserve the inherent attributes of the destination.
Niche tourism opportunities are the opposite to mainstream
tourism. Niche opportunities involve the development of specialisd Achieving Conservation Outcomes
products based on the inherent attributes of an area, or on the In the past, conservation and tourism aims were often seen as
enterprising vision of an individual or the community. While niche conflicting and the emphasis was on achieving ‘a balance’.
products are specialised, there is often a large, perhaps global and However, with a focus on sustainability, a mutually beneficial
high yielding market for them. alliance can be achieved between the economics of tourism and
conservation. That is, through understanding and enjoyment comes
‘Bundling’ Attractions and Attributes greater appreciation and empathy for the resource and through
The ‘bundling’ of attributes enhances the appeal of a place, and appreciation comes greater caring, advocacy and protection.
the likelihood of visitation. This achieves a greater range of
accessible things for the visitor to see and do and a greater critical Providing Mutual Benefits to Visitors and Hosts
mass for economic viability. This enhances the likelihood of Tourism is primarily encouraged as an economic and community
securing overnight stays, greater tourist revenue is expended per development tool. For tourism to be successful planning must take
visit and job opportunities are increased. into account the benefits that the host community and the visitor
seek. Only when the local community is a willing host is tourism
likely to grow and be sustainable.
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Increasing Opportunities for Tourism
2.0
2.1 BENEFITS OF TOURISM FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Figure 3: Perceived Industry Contribution to Economic Prosperity
and Quality of Life
Improving the tourism appeal of regional areas and the subsequent
increased tourist visitations will have a number of direct benefits 100%
including:
80%
• economic growth, job creation, enhanced farm incomes and
business development 60%
• improvements to services within the regions derived from the
additional revenue generated by tourist visitations
40%
• restoration and refurbishment of historic buildings in the course
of their adaptation and re-use for accommodation and tourism
20%
services
• improvements to infrastructure such as roads, aerodrome
0%
services, power and water supply, waste water disposal, waste Agriculture Fishing/ Manufacturing Mining Tourism Wine production
management and park and reserve facilities Aquaculture
Indirect benefits are also likely to occur through (Source: Community Attitudes to Tourism, McGregor Tan Research,
August 2001)
• investments made in licensed premises, related transport
services and personal and health care services The vast majority of respondents (85%) felt that tourism is a ‘very
• the improved general appeal of districts as they develop as important’ or ‘important’ industry sector, ahead of other sectors such
tourist destinations (a consequential benefit of tourist as agriculture (77%), wine production (75%), manufacturing (70%)
expenditure in communities and adding to the range of visitor and mining (31%).
attractions and accommodation services).
When asked what they considered were the main benefits
Ultimately, the key challenge is to ensure that any planning policy associated with tourism, respondents were most likely to identify:
approach to tourism development supports the broader economic,
infrastructure, social and environmental goals of rural communities, • the creation of employment opportunities (53%)
assists local job creation and protects sensitive natural and cultural • stimulating demand for local businesses (52%)
environments, including our coastal and marine areas. • attracting new businesses into the area (27%)
• attracting new and interesting people into the area (25%)
2.2 LOCAL COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR TOURISM The survey also revealed that:
In 2001 the SATC undertook a survey of community attitudes to • 71% of South Australians regard tourism as economically
tourism, involving regional focus groups and more than 3000 sustainable (21% neutral with only 3% not sustainable)
telephone interviews across the State. • 55% regard it as environmentally sustainable (33% neutral with
only 8% not sustainable)
The purpose of the survey was to investigate the level of recognition • 72% regard it as socially sustainable (20% neutral with only 3%
and support for tourism within the community and to identify the not sustainable)
issues relating to the industry’s growth. The results of this research
demonstrated that there is strong community support for the tourism When asked what they felt would be the main form of economic
industry at both State and regional levels. activity in ten years time the survey respondents were most likely to
identify tourism (26%) followed by manufacturing (21%) wine
Prior to any mention of tourism, survey respondents were asked to production (20%) and information technology (16%).
rate economic sectors on the basis of their ‘importance to the
economic prosperity and quality of life enjoyed by your community’. The research also found that for tourism development to be
acceptable it must be authentic and reflect community values. The
values of residents and of discerning visitors are very similar. A list of
visitor expectations is contained in Appendix 1.
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6
Realising Opportunities for Tourism
3.0
This section outlines tourism growth areas and opportunities.
Core Themes Complementary Themes The new Draft Planning Strategy for the Development of Regional
South Australia recognises that there has been demonstrated growth
Wine and Food Accessible Outback in the tourism industry over recent years and that there are strong
Nature/Eco-tourism Indigenous Tourism future growth prospects.
Coast and Marine Arts and Culture
Festivals and Events History and Heritage The Planning Strategy also recognises that:
Rural/Country Living
Sports Tourism • there is considerable potential to support families and
Healthy Lifestyle communities in rural areas by encouraging new approaches to
Special Interest Markets agriculture, expansion of tourism enterprises and other value
adding opportunities where these exist
In order to achieve the State Tourism Plan’s vision of South Australia One of the aims of the Planning Strategy is to encourage sustainable
being an inspirational leader in innovative and sustainable tourism tourism development and ensure differentiation based on the
based on these themes, the Plan requires alignment and integration inherent attributes of each area to assist in achieving regional goals.
of a range of critical factors. These are outlined in Figure 6.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
3.3 TOURISM GROWTH SECTORS There are eight principles of an eco-tourism approach as outlined in
the Draft International Eco-tourism Standard, as follows:
3.3.1 SUSTAINABLE/NATURE-BASED/ECO-TOURISM
Eco-tourism has become one of the fastest growing sectors of the • focussing on giving visitors the opportunity to personally and
world travel industry (World Tourism Organisation). directly experience nature
• providing opportunities to experience nature in ways that lead to
Of all international visitors to Australia 45 percent are motivated by greater understanding, appreciation and enjoyment
natural experiences with half of these being ‘dedicated’ nature • demonstrating best practice for environmentally sustainable
tourism
• contributing directly to the conservation of natural areas
• providing ongoing contributions to the local community
• developments sensitive to, and involving interpretation of the
culture of an existing area
• consistently meeting consumer expectations and are marketed
and promoted honestly and accurately so that realistic
expectations are formed.
tourists. The desire to learn about and experience nature is a major National Parks and Wildlife reserves and associated visitor and
motivation for travel. recreational facilities.
SATC research demonstrates that South Australia is the State least Twenty three percent of all international visitors to South Australia
associated with nature-based experiences. visit a National Park or areas containing wildlife or undertake an
(Source: Benchmark Research for the Evaluation of South Australian activity associated with these areas. Areas such as the Flinders
Tourism Commission's Marketing Campaign, Roy Morgan Research, Ranges, Coorong, Kangaroo Island, Mount Lofty, Cleland, Belair and
October, 1998). the Simpson Desert have distinct identities.
Sustainable Tourism
is the drive to make every tourism business and traveller ecologically and culturally
sensitive by building environmental and cultural awareness into all aspects of the
travel product and its consumption (ie general sustainability in tourism).
Nature-based Tourism
is any sustainable tourism activity, or experience that relates to the natural
environment, whether for relaxation, discovery, or adventure.
Eco-tourism
is a niche nature-based segment where the key motivation is learning, appreciation
and conservation. It is specialized, low capacity, discrete, 'educational', conservation
minded and returns benefits to the local community/natural resource.
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Realising Opportunities for Tourism
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
3.3.2 WINE AND FOOD TOURISM • value adding to the wine experience through the provision of
One of the State’s main strengths is its reputation for wine and food. accommodation, dining, meeting facilities, gallery and relevant
Recent research has demonstrated that visitor expectations to South merchandising at wineries and cellar doors.
Australia’s wine regions are for good quality wine, good food, and
experienced cellar door service. 3.3.3 RURAL TOURISM
Rural tourism is considered to be a significant opportunity given the
More than a third of international guests visit a winery during their visitor demand to experience the Australian country lifestyle.
stay in South Australia, well above the national average of 11
percent. More than 20 per cent of all interstate holiday visits include
a winery compared to the national average of only 4 percent (Bureau
of Tourism Research). Clearly wine, and wine making, are strong
competitive advantages for South Australia and food is a natural
complement to this.
The State Food Plan sets a goal of increasing the value of the South
Australian food industry to $15 billion by 2010. This will include
encouraging value adding and establishing new market outlets.
At the same time Tourism research has shown that consumers have
a very low association of South Australia with ‘coastal or beach
experiences’ and that there is a limited supply of good quality
accommodation in coastal areas in South Australia compared to
other States. (For more information about coastal tourism see
Coastal and Marine Tourism Strategy, South Australian Tourism
Commission, 2001).
• working in partnership with the ‘Food for the Future’ Program to • seeks to differentiate the South Australian coastal experience
optimise synergies between tourism and the food industry from other destinations such as Queensland and utilise coastal
and marine assets to create memorable visitor experiences
• encouraging local events that celebrate food and wine
• exploring opportunities to establish marketing links between
regional produce and tourism destinations
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Realising Opportunities for Tourism
• encourages appropriate development in coastal and marine • encourages the development of some specialised, small to
areas, however, it does not envisage intensive or extensive medium scale (ie up to 100 persons), innovative, eco-style
coastal tourism development, other than in those areas coastal retreats where the emphasis is on ‘connecting’ with, and
specifically zoned for more high-energy recreation and tourism appreciating the coastal and marine environment, integrating
use other local attributes (eg food and wine), and where rigorous site
• seeks to develop a range of focal points along the coastline of analysis, sustainable design and management is achieved
South Australia that facilitates the drive and marine trail market • seeks to improve sustainable/managed access to coastal areas
including places to meet and gather of high tourism value.
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Developing a Planning Policy Framework
4.0 • tourism planning should be integrated with approaches to
natural resource management and economic regeneration for
regions.
This section examines issues for developing a planning policy
framework for tourism for different areas. POSSIBLE PLANNING AND POLICY APPROACH
To ensure a successful approach to rural tourism and value adding
types of activities and achieve sustainable tourism development in
4.1 TOURISM IN RURAL AREAS rural areas it will be necessary for policies to address:
It is important to develop ways to support and strengthen • the range of opportunities for primary produce diversification for
relationships that are emerging between primary industries, tourism tourism in particular rural areas
and local industries in regional SA. • ways to achieve a more flexible approach to these types of rural
development/diversification
• objectives for zones that encompass value adding activities likely
to be desirable and acceptable in rural areas
• ways to foster the linkages between different types of
rural/agricultural activities and tourism, protect prime
agricultural land and reduce potential for land use conflicts
• issues of orderly and economic development for rural areas and
the types of tourism activities which should be located within
centres and townships
• ways to reduce potential tensions and frictions that can be
caused by complex interactions between the tourism industry,
visitors and the environment and communities which host such
visitors eg separation distances, design and environmental
criteria and management approaches which would allow
adjoining agricultural land uses to continue without disturbance
• appropriate levels of public notification
At the same time there are key policy considerations that must be • scale for different types of value adding activities and tourist
considered when contemplating expansion of existing tourism accommodation in areas of scarce, prime agricultural land,
activities in rural areas. intensive animal keeping, and farm management practices with
potential for offence
Value adding is an important part of rural tourism, particularly wine • types of infrastructure needed, for instance - supplies of water
and food tourism. Some Development Plans already address these and wastewater disposal systems - to ensure that these are not
types of uses but more could be achieved. Approaches to value limiting factors for many South Australian rural communities
adding and rural tourism could focus on developing specialist niche • whether there is a need to review change of use provisions in
markets for particular rural areas or regions. rural areas to provide greater certainty and clarity in relation to
ancillary value adding uses for applicants.
ISSUES
The following are considerations for tourism development in rural
areas:
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Developing a Planning Policy Framework
Given the potential for conflict in closely settled urban areas and the Outback areas will face increasing demands from visitors as
relatively ordered structure of land uses in towns, tourism improved roads and vehicles make outback areas more accessible.
development should be undertaken where it fits within an
established town structure. ISSUES
The following are issues requiring consideration:
ISSUES
The following issues are considerations for tourism development in • some outback towns have undergone considerable structural
townships: change (eg Marree and Oodnadatta) but there is not yet a
framework on which to develop a tourism base
• in some instances townships may not have this structure in • some outback towns are not developed enough to identify areas
place. In these circumstances it may be necessary to put in for separation of activities (eg Marla, Innamincka)
place Development Plans or undertake planning investigations to • resources to develop planning policies for these areas to ensure
develop an appropriate policy approach on which to develop that they facilitate appropriate tourism development
tourism policies. This would be the case in Coober Pedy where • visitor demands are often unable to be met by existing
the township itself is part of the tourist experience. infrastructure
• the suitability of bed and breakfast and low key tourist • low permanent populations often do not attract funds to provide
accommodation in residential areas should be considered where basic types of infrastructure, however visitor numbers can be
the scale and form of development conforms to established or very high (eg Innamincka and William Creek when Lake Eyre is
desired building conditions. flooded)
• the appropriateness of the business core of structured
townships for locating a range of hospitality uses, information
and servicing functions, as well as the retailing of products
directed to the tourism market, must be considered.
• the potential for industrial locations being primarily for the
production of goods and the carrying out of various industrial
processes to include associated and secondary tourist functions
(such as the display and sale of manufactured produce) should
be considered.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
• in outback towns, infrastructure (particularly the sustainable • the need to place greater emphasis on assessment of a broader
provision of water, waste disposal, road surfacing, power supply range of issues at the development application stage.
and township beautification, trees and signposting) require For instance, detailed design assessment, the capacity of
commitment and support to allow promotion and growth of environmental services (ie water supply and wastewater
tourism. disposal) to meet the needs of the development and taking into
account seasonal variations, which occur in particular areas
POSSIBLE PLANNING AND POLICY APPROACH • many aspects of achieving sustainable development planning for
There may need to be support for the development of new policies environmentally sensitive areas may fall beyond the reach of
for these areas and for assistance in achieving high quality urban Development Plans and other regulatory frameworks and require
and building design outcomes for tourist developments. other approaches in addition to development assessment. For
instance, the ecological impacts of fixtures and fittings (energy
Further, investigations are needed to identify infrastructure upgrade efficiency and water conservation), embodied energy of building
for areas such as the far north region to increase the capacity of materials and construction processes, materials specification
those centres to accommodate visitors. (such as timber sourcing) that have the potential to generate
significant environmental impacts
• the need for ongoing management approaches to ensure
protection of sensitive environments.
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Developing a Planning Policy Framework
The recent marine planning framework initiative supports the POSSIBLE PLANNING AND POLICY APPROACH
sustainable use commitment of the Strategy. Eight bioregions of Before councils consider changes to policies for these areas SATC
South Australia’s marine environment have been grouped into six and Planning SA are encouraging a process of local/regional strategy
regions. A marine plan will be developed for each region, starting planning to establish land capability and strategies for development
with the Spencer Gulf. for tourism in coastal areas.
The identification of Marine Protected Areas (MPA), and other work A review of world’s best practice approaches for coastal tourism has
emanating from this marine planning work has implications for resulted in the development of guiding principles for coastal tourism
coastal development planning and policies, in particular the development which could assist with these planning processes.
interaction between marine and land based activities and These are contained in Appendix 5.
conservation objectives, and planning for tourism.
The site selection and analysis process included in the Development
ISSUES Regulations for ‘sensitive’ coastal and conservation areas could
The implications for tourism development in coastal areas are similar support any changes following this process. These are contained in
to those covered in the previous discussion of eco/nature tourism. Appendix 3. In addition to these it may be appropriate to consider a
referral mechanism for development in sensitive coastal areas.
An audit of all coastal development provisions in Development Plans
has determined that the policies are sufficient to meet world’s best
practice for coastal planning, however, there are some specific policy
gaps with regard to tourism for coastal areas that need to be
considered, as follows:
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Where to from here ?
5.0
5.1 KEY PLANNING POLICY CHANGES
To develop a robust planning framework that includes the elements 5.2 A TOURISM PLANNING PACKAGE
outlined above the following should be considered:
The following sets out the potential elements of a tourism package.
• flexibility for development of tourism in rural and appropriate
sensitive areas of the State in a manner that also ensures Local and regional strategy planning processes
sustainability of rural agriculture, preservation of prime In areas of high tourism potential, a strategic planning approach is
agricultural land and protection of landscape attributes, cultural, encouraged (see Appendix 4). This would assist in the identification
geological and environmental values of a broad range of required actions, some of which will relate to
• the need to identify appropriate tourism activities in rural areas, necessary changes to Development Plans. These strategic plans
that add value to, and are complementary with, rural industry would involve extensive public and industry consultation and
• recognition that tourism opportunities may not be able to be integrate positioning analysis and local environmental and tourism
readily zoned for or pre-determined resource analyses to determine where there is scope and
• nature retreat-type tourism development in appropriate locations opportunity for tourism development.
• the need for local and regional planning processes and the
adoption of policies that address the potential impacts, scale and The SATC has funds to provide financial and other assistance to
number of developments appropriate to remote and natural areas councils to encourage the preparation of strategic plans, particularly
• removal of policy conflicts, negative connotations and non- on a regional basis.
complying controls based upon association between various
forms of tourist accommodation and the term ‘motel’ Draft Ministerial PAR
• incorporating policies that provide clear direction for small to A Ministerial PAR containing Council Wide policies. Changes to non-
medium scale tourism development (ie accommodation for up to complying lists and zone policies to support the broad policy
10 and from 10 to 100 persons); and approach could be included in the Ministerial PAR at the request of
- developing policies for areas, where appropriate, to allow councils. Possible Draft Council Wide policies are outlined in
larger scale tourism developments with appropriate Appendix 2.
principles to ensure full and proper assessment
• the adoption of a development assessment process, which If changes are proposed which involve removing ‘motel’ from non-
recognise the nature and impact of activities and encourage complying lists or excluding a particular scale of tourist
design that is responsive to, and protects the inherent values of accommodation in a particular zone from non-complying, then
the land (subject to appropriate justification) this could be included in a
• the need for infrastructure support and ongoing management Ministerial PAR.
and maintenance to support tourism development in outback
and remote areas.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
NB: It is not proposed at this stage that changes be made to policies In order to broaden the range of accommodation types intended to
affecting sensitive zones such as; horticulture, forestry, coastal and be encouraged and developed sensitively, the term "motel" could be
conservation zones. Further work needs to be carried out to replaced over time as non-complying lists are amended, with a more
determine the most appropriate policy framework for these zones. generic term - tourist accommodation - which does not associate
Strategic planning for tourism by councils or regions will provide a itself with any particular style or marketing brand, or any pre-
basis for a suitable policy approach for these zones.(see Appendix 4) determined form of development.
Council PARs The term motel, as defined under the Development Act 1993,
Detailed changes to zones could also be undertaken in conjunction captures a broad range of visitor accommodation and is associated
with other policy investigations being undertaken by councils (eg with a particular era of guest accommodation developed in the post
policies within rural, primary production, general farming areas, war period to serve the travelling motorist (ie a hotel for motorists).
township).
The term ‘tourist accommodation’ has already been introduced
Councils could propose changes to individual zone policies following under policies in the Mount Lofty Ranges Region. The term ‘tourist
local or regional strategy planning (see Appendix 4) and a Section 30 accommodation’ is more associated with diverse guest
Review. accommodation for example a boutique hotel, nature retreat, hiker’s
huts, farm stays or bed and breakfast.
In council areas where tourism is considered to exhibit considerable
potential, it may be more appropriate to initiate specific investigations There is potential to introduce the term formally under the
into tourism development and the type of policies and actions that Development Regulations 1993 to create a positive investment and
will be required to encourage sustainable tourist development development climate supportive of appropriate, sustainable tourism
outcomes. In some instances councils may wish to initiate regional development and accommodation types in line with the strategic
policy investigations or Section 30 reviews as a regional process. policy direction of the Planning Strategy for Development of Regional
South Australia and State Tourism Plan.
To facilitate regional policy formulation, the SATC has set aside funds
for councils specifically seeking to maximise tourism opportunities. A new term ‘tourist accommodation’ and accompanying definition,
Groups of councils (or lead councils) should contact the SATC if could be introduced in Schedule 1, as follows:
regional tourism planning is contemplated.
‘tourist accommodation’ means a building or group of buildings
Possible Regulation Amendments providing temporary accommodation for visitors or travellers and
Amendments to the Development Regulations could support the may include an ancillary restaurant, sales/servicing facility,
policy approach as follows: and/or a manager’s/caretaker’s residence, but does not include
a dwelling or hotel, as defined, or a caravan park.
Schedule 1 – Introduce a new definition for ‘Tourist
Accommodation’ in the Regulations. Amendments could then be made to Development Plans to
incorporate responsive planning policies following consultation with
The SATC is of the view that the current definition of ‘motel’ provides councils either through a Ministerial PAR or through Section 30
a negative connotation for tourism and that a new definition ‘tourist reviews. For instance by encouraging desirable scales of tourist
accommodation’ should be introduced. accommodation for 30-50 units. Tourist accommodation for more
than 100 persons could then remain as non-complying development
in certain zones.
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Where to from here ?
The purpose of a site analysis is to encourage the This Discussion Paper sets out the key issues facing the tourism
proponent/designer to undertake a thorough assessment of the site industry in South Australia and provides a basis for further
and the surrounding area and to identify the opportunities and discussion on:
constraints for layout and design. A Site Analysis Plan is a graphic
depiction of the various factors that have influenced the design a. the development of a robust policy framework for tourism in
process. This could be introduced by an amendment to Schedule 5 regional South Australia
of the Development Regulations. b. how this is achieved to best take account of the variations
between different regions.
The type and detail of information to be provided with a development
application will depend upon such factors as the type, scale and The document will be on consultation with councils and other
intensity of development as well as the character and location of the interested parties for 3 months. During this time regional workshops
site. to explore the issues raised in the paper, and to gather feedback on
other relevant issues, will also be undertaken. Written submissions
Appendix 3 outlines the extent of details that could be required in a are also invited.
site analysis plan for an application for tourism development in
sensitive zones. Your response on the issues outlined in this paper is valued and
necessary.
Schedule 8 – Referrals for coastal areas
Schedule 8 could be amended to provide a referral on applications
of certain types in coastal areas.
Planning Bulletin
A Planning Bulletin could provide a range of best practice and design
guidance to assist councils with ongoing improvements to
Development Plans. For instance information contained in Appendix
3 provides draft site selection, and analysis and application
information needs, particularly for medium-scale tourist
accommodation development proposals within ‘sensitive’ Coastal
and Conservation Zones. The best practice approaches for coastal
tourism contained in Appendix 5 could also assist councils
undertaking local or regional strategy planning and subsequent
policy changes to zones.
Developer guides
The information contained in Appendix 3 would be of particular value
to proponents of tourism development. Councils would be
encouraged to adapt the information and make it readily available
within their districts.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 1
(I) INVENTORY OF VISITOR EXPECTATIONS
• a healthy environment
• authentic cultural heritage
• creativity and intellectual stimulation
• health and personal relationships
• the personal touch
• comfort, convenience and good service
• privacy when desired
Nature Retreats
Traditional Hotels
These are generally small scale and possess the character and
ambience of the grand homes of the past. Usually licensed for
guests and catering primarily to the business meeting and short
break indulgent leisure markets and generally owner operated.
Tourism investment helps to preserve and promote the heritage and
inherent character of these buildings.
Farm Stays
24
Appendix 1
Motels
Holiday Apartments
Resorts
Holiday Villages
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Mixed Developments
Health retreats
Backpacker Accommodation
26
Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 2
Suggested Council wide policies for Tourism Development
in regional South Australia
OBJECTIVES
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Tourism is a diverse industry involved in the transport, feeding, PRINCIPLES OF DEVELOPMENT CONTROL
entertaining, accommodation, and care of visitors. The
accommodation of visitors and guests should be an intrinsic part of TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
the tourism experience. Tourism development should add to the
range of services and accommodation available. Choice is the key. 1. Tourism development should provide appropriate and unique
This will help contribute to greater length of stay, greater visitor visitor experiences, and harness, conserve and support the built
expenditure in the area and repeat visits. and natural character and intrinsic values of the land.
Opportunities for tourism development occur throughout the State. A 2. Tourism development should be located, developed and
spread of tourism products and services throughout the State, and managed:
the forging of linkages and synergies with other local attractions, will
also enhance the visitor’s experience and business viability. a. in accord with the range of uses generally appropriate
under the zoning or structure plan
Its continued growth is dependent upon a number of factors b. to not detrimentally impact on existing uses; and in any
including maintaining premium quality (and supporting the State’s event, should not compromise the achievement of the zone
reputation and recognition for excellence in food and wine), or policy area objectives.
identifying and serving niche markets, optimising the capture and
returns from those markets and expanding into new markets. 3. Tourism development should not be located in agricultural areas
where it could prejudice agricultural productivity generally by
Objective 3: Protection of areas of exceptional natural, cultural limiting the application of land management techniques
and historical value in a way that ensures its reasonably required to sustain agricultural production.
values are conserved while also allowing for
appropriate levels of visitation and associated 4. Tourism development on publicly owned land, or where located
tourism development. in an area enjoying high public access, should not restrict public
access to such places.
The State’s cultural, historic and natural assets are unique and many
are not publicly owned. The private sector plays a significant role in 5. Tourism development should only alter the natural, cultural
the protection of those assets and enabling visitors to learn about and/or historical resources of a site or locality in a manner
and better appreciate these special places and environments. which provides for public use while contributing to the ongoing
maintenance and conservation of such resources by protecting
Nature and coastal retreats and genuine visitor experiences are biodiversity.
appropriate in remote and natural areas of the State provided the
design and development, following a proper analysis of site features a. Tourism development should be of a scale and nature that
and conditions, identifies how activity, visitation and building(s) can supports and sustains the integrity of the site.
be introduced with minimal impact and intrusion.
6. Tourism development in a natural environment should only be
Design, siting and ongoing property management will need to developed where its scale and form, and isolation from existing
achieve excellence in environmental protection and management, or approved tourism development, would not overwhelm, over
including limiting waste and reducing personal and property risks. commercialise or detract from the intrinsic natural values of the
The potential for recycling and/or demounting of low-key structures land or its locality, and should not be located adjacent to other
in sensitive environments will also need to be considered. similar scale tourist development.
All such development should maintain the value and enhance the 7. Tourism development should be serviced, or be capable of being
general public appreciation or enjoyment of the natural resource. serviced, by roads, power, water, telecommunications and waste
There may be locations where tourism development of any form disposal facilities to meet the anticipated demands. In remote
should not take place because of the high environmental value areas alternative, appropriate technologies which use renewable
and/or sensitivity. energy sources and/or treat and re-use stormwater and
wastewater may supplement conventional, mains, services
provided demands for such services can be limited to
appropriate, deliverable, levels.
28
Appendix 2
9. Tourism development should only be located in rural districts 12. Tourism development within townships should:
where it:
a. maintain and enhance identifiable built harmony or
a. has a functional and/or location requirement linked with character (without mimicking or reproducing existing built
agricultural production or processing carried out from the character), particularly in terms of:
land; or
b. involves the interpretation of an attribute of natural, cultural i the predominant setback and orientation of buildings;
or historical interest; or ii consistent proportion or spacing of buildings; and
c. relies on the features of the land or its setting as an iii built form, bulk and composition of buildings;
intrinsic basis for its attraction.
b. create buildings of individuality and durable appeal,
Such forms of tourism development include visitor designed to reflect and harmonise with any built or natural
accommodation, cellar door and factory direct sales, together elements or features with which the town or settlement is
with interpretive, hospitality and support services for visitors. associated
c. utilise and adapt existing structurally sound and appealing
10. Tourism development outside townships or designated tourism buildings in preference to developing new sites to assist in
development zones or areas should: revitalisation and economic use of existing building stock
and to minimise new and potentially discordant building
a. adapt and upgrade existing buildings in preference to elements.
constructing new buildings
b. improve conditions in disturbed or degraded areas in 13. Township-based tourism development should promote the
preference to locating in pristine areas compact infill of closely settled areas rather than expanding the
town beyond established town boundaries.
where such sites and buildings are capable of orderly and
efficient adaptation for such purposes. Tourist Accommodation Within Townships – Associated with a
Dwelling
11. Buildings associated with tourism development outside
townships or tourism development zones or areas should be set 14. Tourist accommodation developed on the site of, or as part of, a
back: dwelling or dwelling extension, is an appropriate form of
development generally throughout living areas where its built
a. from a public road – a minimum of 100 metres unless set scale and site development (including signage) harmonises with
behind, or within an existing building its residential surrounds.
b. from a water course – a minimum of 25 metres for
buildings and 50 metres for associated waste disposal 15. Car parking for tourist accommodation associated with a
areas (from a watercourse identified on a current 1:50 000 dwelling should be provided at a rate (in excess of that
topographic map (SA Government published)) and not on associated with the dwelling) of one additional space for each
flood prone land guest room or suite of rooms, such that:
c. adjoining primary producers (other than where used for
grazing) a minimum of 300 metres except: a. guest and resident parking spaces can be accessed
i where the development provides adequate protection to independently
noise sensitive activities such as habitable rooms of b. parking areas are attractively developed and landscaped, or
tourism accommodation through acoustic treatment, screen fenced, and do not dominate the street frontage
building orientation and design, or other means c. sensitive rooms, particularly bedrooms of residential
ii where the development incorporates suitable landscape neighbours are suitably shielded from noise and headlight
treatment so as to adequately protect against spray glare associated with guest vehicle movements
drift and dust from adjoining properties d. a domestic character is retained through the maintenance
of significant trees and site features and the use of low-key
d. from intensive animal keeping/rural industries – a minimum domestic paving materials as necessary to provide a
of 1000 metres - a greater or lesser distance may be suitable all-weather surface
appropriate to provide adequate separation, given e. runoff from permeable areas is directed to swales, or
topographic or prevailing climatic conditions sediment and gravel reed beds, before entering bores,
acquifers or the stormwater system.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Protection of the Natural Environment, Biodiversity b. alternative water diversion technologies and wherever
and Character possible the avoidance of the use of existing natural
streams and watercourses for stormwater management to
16. Tourism development outside townships or tourism development ensure there is no adverse impact on the integrity of a
zones or areas should minimise any impacts on the natural watercourse
environment or rural character, and in particular, should: c. minimising erosion and the transport of sediment, as well
a. be sited and designed so as not to intrude upon significant as toxins and debris, downstream through the use of
landscape features or environmental qualities appropriate entrapment and/or soakage measures at
b. be of a scale and form, and incorporate essential design stormwater outfalls
elements, which reflect the character and quality of the d. re-using wastewater, exploiting natural climatic features and
landscape and the natural environment and creatively designing buildings to minimise energy and water demands
capture the features and qualities of the land and the reliance on ‘mains services’
c. be located unobtrusively and utilise natural landscape e. siting and orientating development, and using materials,
features such as vegetation and landforms to enclose the construction and management techniques, so as to
space around the development and reduce its exposure to maintain all sources of noise, light, odour, dust and other
public roads and prominence from view points, adjoining emissions at the site boundaries to ambient or pre-
properties and the coast development levels
d. be located where the loss of existing native or significant f. using natural features and placing signs and walkways to
vegetation is minimised direct potentially damaging visitor activities away from areas
e. not give rise to pest plant infestation of areas of native of cultural or natural significance, fragile areas, and areas of
vegetation highest environmental value
f. avoid disturbance to biodiversity, particularly threatened g. construction techniques and materials for light weight
species and ecological communities, existing natural structures (but not project transportable structures) that are
landforms through excessive excavation and/or filling of the capable of being disassembled and removed from the site
land and re-established elsewhere with the site being returned to
g. utilise materials, colours and finishes which complement the its natural state
natural surrounds. h. using construction techniques and materials, and
management practices, which limit human and
17. Tourism development should be sensitive to and where possible environmental exposure to hazards, wastes or residues of a
enhance the valued landscape quality and other environmental toxic nature (in particular, timber treatments, paints and
resources, maintain the valued environmental quality or resins, insulating materials, termite, insect and vermin
otherwise support the ongoing management and restoration of control, and underground petroleum storage tanks)
sensitive environments including areas: i. using indigenous or locally sourced materials, where
a. providing a significant habitat for rare or endangered wildlife practical and where such materials are not scarce, rare or
b. having a high biodiversity endangered
c. having particular value as a remnant of plant associations j. undertaking vehicle and construction area hygiene practices
characteristic of the district or region prior to extensive to minimize the impact of weed invasion and plant and
clearance animal disease eg washing down vehicles before entering
d. of scientific, archaeological, historic, or cultural significance and after exiting a site to prevent spread of Phythopthera
e. being a wetland, or otherwise including plant and animal cinnamomi
species characteristically associated with such k. siting and design of buildings, fences, structures and
environments; earthworks (including dams and levees) so as to minimize
and should only be undertaken after detailed site analysis, and interference with the natural overland water flow,
the consideration of design, siting and management issues. watercourses or established wildlife corridors for movement
The resultant site analysis plan should be submitted as part of of native birds and animals
the development application and illustrate all design influences l. minimising the impact of the motor vehicle on the visual
on the development proposal. and ambient qualities by placing roadways and parking
areas in unobtrusive locations, whilst meeting functional
18. Tourism development in remote districts and natural access and parking demands and establishing a sense of
environments should incorporate low impact site development arrival.
techniques, including:
a. minimising stormwater discharge through: 19. Development should minimize energy requirements, maximize
i reduction of hard surfaces efficient use of energy and reduce greenhouse gas emission
ii the capture of potable roof water, and diversion of through:
stormwater from hardstand areas to soakage and/or a. promoting the use of renewable energy sources in
irrigation areas development
30
Appendix 2
b. siting and design that maximises solar access through both i located adjacent to the building or in another
allotment and building/roof orientation to allow to enable convenient location on the allotment;
effective use of solar collectors ii always clearly identified and accessible to fire fighting
c. providing adequate thermal comfort for occupants while vehicles; and
minimizing the need for fossil fuel sources of energy for iii of sufficient capacity according to the level of bushfire
heating and cooling risk;
d. using low embodied energy materials, and materials which
enable development to be climate responsive. Eg enable e. incorporate landscaping that provides bushfire protection
good thermal performance. measures which minimise the risk to life or damage to
buildings and property in the event of a fire and assists in
20. Development should promote sustainable use of water supplies preventing or slowing the spread of fire;
based on the principles of avoidance, reduction, re-use and f. not have landscaping that:
appropriate disposal.
i would result in branches overhanging the roof of any
21. Development should be designed and constructed and take building; and
place in a manner which: ii would result in a tree being planted closer to any
a. minimizes impacts on biodiversity both on site and in building or overhead power line than a distance that is
surrounding localities (eg invasion of pest species and fire equivalent to its likely mature height.
management)
b. enhances the longer term protection and management of 26. Development should make suitable provision for the storage and
biodiversity disposal of organic and hard waste. In any event:
c. provides linkages and corridors between areas of native a. bins for the deposit of waste/litter by the public, in a public,
vegetation or publicly accessible, place should be sufficient in number
d. rehabilitates degraded areas and uses local indigenous and conveniently placed for the likely demands
species in land scaping b. bins/hoppers for all wastes should be discretely placed,
e. protects the conservation values of adjacent coastal and and/or screened from public view, and accessible to
marine environments. vehicles required in the removal of such waste
c. organic or putrescible wastes should be placed and sealed,
22. Development should incorporate appropriate risk management and regularly removed from the site to appropriate disposal
provisions in response to the siting and design, particularly the sites, so as not to become odorous and offensive
physical condition of the land, including its propensity to flood, d. waste bins and storage facilities should be secured against
storm or fire hazard, or incidence of landslip, erosion risk, or the weather to prevent access by foraging animals, vermin
ground instability. and insects
e. hard, inert waste should be stored out of public view and
23. Private access tracks to tourist accommodation in areas where removed so often as is required.
there is a significant risk of bushfires should provide safe and
convenient access for fire fighting vehicles and evacuation 27. The holding, transport and disposal of all wastes should not
purposes. affect personal health or environmental conditions nor give rise
to odorous, offensive or unsightly conditions, nor impact on
24. Suitable access should be provided to dams and other open stream or groundwaters, native wildlife, air quality or the
water supplies to be utilised for fire fighting purposes. sanitary condition of the land.
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 3
Site selection, the site analysis process and application
information needs for medium-scale tourist
accommodation development in ‘sensitive’ Coastal and
Conservation Zones.
SELECTING A SITE
A comprehensive site analysis is required to ensure tourism
development is designed with nature rather than with token regard
to nature. The intended outcome is development that is responsive
to the prevailing natural and cultural site attributes, which
demonstrates that people can live in balance with nature. This will
be expressed and presented to the visitor through creative and
informative interpretation to raise understanding and appreciation of
the environment.
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
A site should be selected which enhances the locality and: SCOPE OF THE SITE ANALYSIS PLAN
• is clear of significant native vegetation Typically, a Site Analysis Plan should illustrate the following
• is clear of indigenous cultural features information:
• where the existing important view to the site is preserved
• that retains existing important views out of the site plan details
• that requires relatively little excavation. • Scale plan 1:100 to 1:500 (depending on the size of the site)
All development should respect and if possible enhance its setting. • Show site boundary, allotment dimensions, scale and north point
The importance of an area within which a site is being sought can
be understood from existing studies and reports, as well as local climatic conditions
knowledge. In doing so reference should be made to the council • Monthly temperature and rainfall ranges
Development Plan, and other plans such as council Strategic Plans, • Prevailing winds
Development Board reports, and SA Tourism Commission reports. • Aspect to sun rise and set
• Overshadowing from existing features
SITE ANALYSIS
topography and geology
The type and detail of information to be provided with a development • Contours and slope analysis (steepness, eg 1 in 10)
application will depend upon such factors as the type, scale and • Direction of fall of the site
intensity of development as well as the character and location of the • Natural drainage lines or watercourses
site. In all cases, the aim should be to provide clear and • Geological features
comprehensive information to assist the planning authority (usually • Soil contamination
the local Council) in assessing the proposal. Demonstration of how
the design relates to the site conditions and Development Plan services
policies will usually speed up the approval process. • Existing services, connection points and easements
• Existing pedestrian and vehicle access points
The purpose of a Site Analysis is to encourage the • Existing trails (walking, cycling, bridle)
proponent/designer to undertake a thorough assessment of the site
and the surrounding area and to identify opportunities and existing buildings on site
constraints for the resultant layout and design. A Site Analysis Plan • Location of any existing buildings
is a graphic depiction of the various factors that have influenced the • Buildings to be retained or demolished
design process. When submitted with a development application, • Heritage value of any existing buildings
the Site Analysis Plan will assist the planning authority by
highlighting why a certain design response has been chosen. vegetation on site
• Type, location and size of existing trees and plants
The following is a list of matters that should generally be considered • Condition - robust/degraded vegetation, distribution
as part of the Site Analysis process.
adjoining property conditions
CONSULTATION • Land uses and activities, including possible future land uses
(as per zoning)
Prior to submitting an application applicants are encouraged to • Potential topographic separation
discuss their proposal with council officers and service providers at • Location and height of buildings
the early concept stage. In certain circumstances, it may also be • Any special features such as significant vegetation,
advisable to consult adjoining land owners/occupiers. watercourses etc
• Type, height and condition of boundary fences
Following the receipt of an application, the planning authority may be
obliged to consult neighbours and, in some instances, the wider views
community. Depending on the location and nature of the application, • Significant views from the site and site viewpoints
referral may also be required to various Government agencies for • Significant views into the site by neighbours or passers by
comment and/or direction. The Development Act and Regulations • Topographic attributes relevant to siting of structures
1993 and the relevant Development Plan provide details on the
nature of this consultation and/or referral. potential external pollution sources
• Noise
• Dust
• Spray drift
• Odours
• Discharges
34
Appendix 3
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
vehicle movement and parking • Identification of all species to be planted and their suitability to
• Management and means of reducing visual impact of motor the site
vehicles within the site
• Road reserve dimensions soft landscape
• Location of kerb edge, widths of medians, verges and footpaths • Planting concept, showing lawn areas, graded areas, trees and
and cycle ways planting themes, and ultimate tree canopy, with botanical and
• Location and width of driveways and crossovers common names
• Design, colour and finish of all street pavements, parking bays, • Planting proposed for privacy screening
bus stops, kerbs, paths, crossovers, medians and verges • Overland drainage proposals
• Location and quantity of on-site parking
• Location and design of any traffic calming devices hard landscape surfaces
• Outline of all hard paved areas (including communal roadways,
site furniture driveways and paths) and identification of purpose; paving
• Design and location of all proposed site furniture (eg seats, bins, materials and drainage treatment
signs) and lighting • Hard landscape structures, details of any fencing and walls;
proposed privacy screens; location of gates, seating, play
services equipment; materials and levels of steps and ramps
• Methods of accessing/generating power and water
• Location of proposed services and whether overhead or site facilities
underground • Details of landscaping to garbage bin storage or standing areas
• Stormwater management treatments • Details of any proposed signage
• Waste water treatment • Concept details of additional facilities, such as barbecues and
(NB: Applicants are encouraged to explore appropriate and plentiful swimming pools
collaborative ‘alternative’ sustainable technologies to provide these
services, particularly in remote areas.) services
• Lighting for vehicle areas, cycle and pedestrian paths, and
proposed construction methods security
• Retention of top soil plant gene pool for redistribution post • Location of underground services
construction • Location and treatment of substations and meters.
• Measures to prevent introduction of plant/soil based diseases
and pest plants SITE/LOCALITY INTERPRETATION PLAN
• Measures to protect existing vegetation The site interpretation plan, which reflects the authentic story of the
• Measures to protect quality of water runoff from the site locality and site, should include:
landscape structure
• Connection to parks or other open space networks
• Intended location of all open space (eg communal areas, service
and storage)
• Identification of major tree planting; scale of trees relative to
buildings
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 4
TOURISM STRATEGY PLANNING AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
A strategic tourism planning approach should be: possibilities – what the special characteristics of the area are locals
wish to share with visitors
Goal oriented – with clear recognition of tourism’s role in achieving
broad community goals. warts – what things detract from the area being a pleasant place to
visit.
Integrative – including tourism planning issues in the mainstream
of corporate planning and planning for the economy, conservation, A second, more intensive workshop involving key community people
parks, heritage, land use, and infrastructure. and specialist professionals (eg in tourism, heritage, environment
etc) should follow in order to integrate:
Market driven – planning for development that meets the needs of
people and so will trade successfully in a competitive market place. • community views
• market trends
Resource driven – developing assets which build on the • area strengths and weaknesses, to establish the key elements
destination’s inherent strengths while protecting and enhancing the concerning:
attributes and experiences of tourism sites. • market positioning
• the vision
Consultative – with meaningful community input to determine what • constraints and opportunities
is acceptable to the local population. • objectives
• key strategies and actions
Systematic – drawing on, or undertaking research to provide • policies
conceptual or predictive support for planners. In particular, drawing • implementation (responsibilities and timelines).
on the experience of other tourism destinations in terms of the
lessons learnt. This process should establish what kind of tourism will meet
community objectives, how a township, area or region should
The approach advocated below is but one option available to ‘position’ itself in a competitive market, what product needs to be
councils and variations should be considered to reflect the particular developed to meet market needs, what infrastructure should be put
opportunities and circumstances. In some cases a number of in place, and how to overcome constraints such as seasonality.
abutting councils may wish to initiate strategic planning at a regional
level, particularly where the region and its attributes are marketed Importantly, it should identify any shortcomings of existing
and perceived as a distinct entity. Development Plan policy, as well as other council policy documents
such as its corporate plan, and inform future policy changes.
A local planning process for tourism is illustrated in Figure 2. The
approach is predicated on thorough background research, including
the identification of existing and potential tourism markets, followed
by workshops with local and professional input.
primary values – what residents and visitors value about the area
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
9. CONSULTATION
Consult with key organisations and the community.
2. POTENTIAL ANALYSIS
Examine broad market trends OUTCOMES
Analyse area’s tourism assets, strengths and Concise document outlining 1 to 8.
weaknesses. Plan Amendment Report as required.
Undertake competitor analysis. Amendment to Tourism Plan as appropriate.
Determine community goals.
Determine the existing and potential role of tourism
in the area’s economy.
8. MPLEMENTATION
OUTCOMES Devise implementation mechanism – programme of
Statement of tourism's potential and work, organisational responsibilities and timelines.
priority in community development Identify changes to existing legislation.
OUTCOME
Implementation strategy.
3. MARKET ANALYSIS
Analyse the tourism market – trends, market
segments, characteristics and needs, growth potential. 7. INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT
Identify fit between market forces and the area’s Identify and detail Identify and detail
assets and resources. infrastructure required to infrastructure required
Determine market position. support investment and to manage visitors
Identify major product gaps. provide for visitor needs. impacts.
OUTCOMES
Target markets identified. Identify and describe opportunities for the
Statement of market positioning. interpretation of features of visitor interest.
Major product gaps identified.
OUTCOME
Prioritised programme of infrastructure works.
4. SCENARIOS
Identify preliminary ‘primary values’.
Identify alternative future tourism scenarios.
Examine implications of growth. 6. DETAILED ASSESMENT FOR :
Select preferred scenario. Economic Environmental
Identify constraints to achieving preferred scenario. Sustainability Sustainability
Establish tourism objectives and strategies. Identify and evaluate Analyse environmental
natural and built and landscape values.
tourism resources. Identify conflicts and
OUTCOMES Specify potential constraints to tourism
Draft statement of desired future role and character development development.
of tourism in the area. opportunities consistent
Statement of objectives and strategies. with positioning.
OUTCOMES
Revise objectives and strategies.
5. CONSULTATIONS
Tourism character areas identified specifying
Consult with key organizations and the community
appropriate types and scales of development.
through interviews and workshops as appropriate.
Development principles and planning specifications
Present results of investigations and proposals.
for character units.
Identify community’s primary values, key issues and
Major development opportunities and performance
problems.
criteria specified.
OUTCOME
Vision or statement of an agreed ‘Desired Future
Character’.
This process should establish what kind of tourism will meet in place, and how to overcome constraints such as seasonality.
community objectives, how a township, areas of region should Importantly, it should identify any need to amend existing
‘position’ itself in a competitive market, what product needs to be Development Plan policy, as well as other council policy documents
developed to meet market needs, what infrastructure should be put such as its strategic management plans, and inform future policy
changes.
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Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 5
COASTAL TOURISM – BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES
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40
Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Appendix 6
REFERENCES
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42
Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Notes / Comments
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Draft Sustainable tourism development in regional South Australia
Both text and cover stocks are recycled and completely derived from
designated sustainable forest regions.
44