Midlothian selected for new sustainable tourism pilot

Midlothian has been selected to take part in a new initiative designed to support sustainable tourism across Scotland.

The region is one of four destinations chosen to join VisitScotland’s Sustainable Destination Development Project.

The year-long programme will see Midlothian Council work with VisitScotland and GDS-Movement – a pioneering, data-driven international change agency that acts to catalyse socio-economic and environmental transformation in cities and regions across the world – to undertake an independent assessment of the region’s sustainable growth plans.

Participating destinations will receive tailored guidance and practical tools, including clear priorities, action plans and measures to track progress and support long-term sustainable development.

The pilot aims to support the responsible growth of tourism and events in Midlothian, helping to bring lasting benefits to local communities, businesses, culture and the environment.

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said:

“This exciting pilot reflects our commitment to working with industry and partners to make Scotland a more economically, environmentally and socially sustainable destination.

This project will harness such potential to build a stronger foundation, helping ensure communities, businesses and places across the region benefit from a thriving visitor economy.”

Councillor Colin Cassidy, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Tourism at Midlothian Council, said:

“We are delighted that Midlothian has been selected to take part in VisitScotland’s Sustainable Destination Development Project.

“This pilot recognises the positive work already taking place and maximises the economic value of visitors to Midlothian.

Working alongside the Midlothian Tourism Forum, VisitScotland, GDS-Movement and our local partners will help us identify practical actions that support sustainable growth, enhance the visitor experience and ensure tourism continues to contribute positively to Midlothian’s economy while protecting the places and heritage that make the region unique.

“We look forward to collaborating with businesses, communities and stakeholders throughout the pilot and using the learning from this project to help shape a resilient, inclusive and sustainable future for Midlothian as a destination.”

Janie Neumann, Relationship Manager (UK, Ireland), GDS-Movement, said:

“We are delighted to be supporting VisitScotland and participating destinations through this pilot. The project recognises the important role Scotland’s regions play in shaping a more sustainable visitor economy, and the commitment shown by local partners is a strong foundation to build on.

“GDS-Movement works with destinations around the world, but this programme is especially meaningful because it combines international good practice with a strong understanding of Scotland’s tourism landscape. We look forward to working with partners to turn ambition into practical action, strengthen collaboration and support tourism that benefits places over the long term.”

VisitScotland’s Sustainable Destination Development Project supports the ambitions of Scotland Outlook 2030 and complements the organisation’s wider sustainable growth activity. It also aligns with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Destination Framework, supporting a consistent approach to sustainable destination development.

Destinations were selected against agreed criteria, including partnership working, strategic alignment and commitment to delivery.

Learning from the pilot will help inform future destination support and development activity.

For more information visit: Sustainable Destination Development Programme | VisitScotland.org