Network priorities and activities
When the Network was first established in 2003, six important areas for further work were identified:
- Raising the profile of the South Downs as a place for quiet recreation and a real local experience
- Encouraging and promoting methods of getting around other than by car
- Improving sources of information for visitors and businesses on the landscape, wildlife, history and culture of the South Downs
- Forging closer links between the tourism industry and the countryside management and rights of way staff
- Improving links between the tourism industry and local producers
- Developing an e-mail communication channel between members of the Network to facilitate self-help and information exchange.
Based on these priorities, a number of Network projects and initiatives have taken place over the last few years, including:
- A series of dedicated ‘Rural Welcome’ workshops held at a variety of locations across the Downs, on subjects such as local distinctiveness, local produce and welcoming walkers and cyclists.
- The production and distribution of a ‘bedroom browser’ style publication, aimed at highlighting the Downs’ distinctiveness and enabling the addition of localised information on sustainable tourism opportunities.
- The participation of a number of Network member businesses in the South East pilot Green Tourism Business Scheme, resulting in bronze, silver or gold accreditation.
- Partnership projects with the Sussex Wildlife Trust to focus on the Downs’ natural attractions as a means of generating visitor interest.
- The establishment of a Green Tourism Business Club to encourage and enable the sharing of information and expertise on sustainable tourism.
- Local ‘Food and Drink’ and ‘Meet the Producer’ events.
- Arundel Castle conference on ‘Green Tourism’.
Network members will be informed of new projects as they progress but are also encouraged to suggest what how they would like to see the Network develop.
