Ecotourism in the Norfolk Broads

[PhilD]

Good evening everyone

I'm currently studying for an MSc in Environmental Management with the OU. As the final part of my degree I'm required to put together a 5000 word project (over 4 weeks) to explore an aspect of ecotourism.

As a long term resident of Norfolk, I'd like this to consider the Norfolk Broads. I have to produce a briefing paper which addresses a particular policy maker (The Broads Authority in this case) and propose a theoretical policy change or improvement relating to ecotourism and environmental responsibility. Having reviewed the 2011 Broads Plan available on the BA website there seems huge scope, but I was wondering if I could canvas opinion from the wealth of experience within this forum. Managing congestion and the environmental effects caused by this seems to be a dominent topic, but I'm sure there are many other important issues out there relating to The Broads area!

I'd be really grateful for some feedback on this.....the pressure is on and I'd like to make an infomed start!

Phil

[senator]

Hi Phil and well done on getting this far.

When you say managing congestion what are you actually referring to?

If it is road traffic congestion I think that is something that even I would not try and pin on the Broads Authority so really you need to look to the town planning department of the local council for that one.

There are many different subjective opinions on Eco Tourism on the Broads which is something I would imagine would be common within any similar area. There are many interested party's including Boaters, Anglers, Bird Watchers, Holiday makers to name but a few and within these groups there are sub sections, some as diverse and peculiar as Sailors. These are people too tight to buy fuel and playing the eco card to justify their wholly inappropriate choice of propulsion and excuse their need to get in everyone elses way.

You may pick up some opinions on here but using them for a serious paper I think may be risky as they are likely to be heavily weighted in the direction of the posters personal position rather than serious overall ecological development.