sustainable tourism in the biesbosch-region

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE
BIESBOSCH-REGION
STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN
6 DECEMBER 2011
1
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE BIESBOSCH-REGION
Date:
December 6, 2011
Presented to:
Europarc Consulting
By Parkschap Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
Postbus 8, 3300 AA Dordrecht, The Netherlands
Contact person: Marianne den Braven, [email protected]
Authors draft version May 17, 2011:
Anneke van Mispelaar MSc
Jeroen Laro MSc
BUITEN, Bureau voor Economie & Omgeving
Achter Sint Pieter
3512 HT Utrecht
[email protected]
www.bureaubuiten.nl
+31 (0) 30-2318945
Projectnummer: 2011-567
Adaptations final version:
Marianne den Braven, Parkschap Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
This text reflects the author's views. The Programme Authorities of
Interreg IV A 2 Seas are not liable for any use that may be made of the
information contained herein.
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CONTENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE BIESBOSCH-REGION........................................................................................ 2
CONTENT.......................................................................................................................................................... 3
1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 5
1.1 THE BIESBOSCH: A UNIQUE DUTCH WETLAND .......................................................................................................... 5
1.2 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE BIESBOSCH............................................................................................................... 6
1.3 THE EUROPEAN CHARTER .................................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 THIS STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN ........................................................................................................................ 7
2 ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.1 COOPERATION IN THE REGION ............................................................................................................................... 9
2.2 THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SITUATION ................................................................................................................. 9
2.3 NATURAL, CULTURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES ..................................................................................................... 11
2.4 TOURISM FACILITIES AND SERVICES....................................................................................................................... 12
2.5 CURRENT VISITORS AND FUTURE MARKETS ............................................................................................................. 14
2.6 PERCEPTIONS OF VISITORS .................................................................................................................................. 16
2.7 FUTURE MARKETS ............................................................................................................................................ 17
2.8 SUMMARY ASSESSMENT – SWOT ....................................................................................................................... 20
3. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT ............................................................. 22
3.1 AMBITION ....................................................................................................................................................... 22
3.2 AIMS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN THE BIESBOSCH .......................................................................... 23
3.3 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES ...................................................................................................................................... 23
3.4 TARGET GROUPS & ZONING……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………25
4. ACTION PLAN ............................................................................................................................................. 30
5. IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING ........................................................................................................... 34
5.1 IMPLEMENTING THE ACTIONPLAN ........................................................................................................................ 34
5.2 MONITORING THE RESULTS ................................................................................................................................ 38
ANNEX 1 BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................ 44
ANNEX 2 STAKEHOLDERS THE BIESBOSCH (IN THE FIELD OF TOURISM) ......................................................... 45
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 THE BIESBOSCH: A UNIQUE DUTCH WETLAND
The Biesbosch is a unique protected wetland area in the South-west of the Netherlands.
The area lies on the edge of the metropolitan area the Randstad, and is a (mainly) manshaped landscape. Central in the history of the area is the struggle against and working
with the water, coming from the rivers Rhine and Meuse and the North Sea. Now the
area is characterized by high quality nature, a flat landscape with marshes and woodland
and three sweet water reservoirs. Big and smaller water courses run through the area
creating a natural zoning.
The Biesbosch exists of three bigger parts (the Dordtse-, Sliedrechtse and Brabantse
Biesbosch) and locally there are many isolated zones that sometimes are only accessible
by water.
The Biesbosch was given the status of National Park in 1994 for its exceptional ecological
values. Nowadays, the area serves as a important tourism/recreational hotspot,
evidenced by the approx. 1,5 million visitors each year. Parkschap Nationaal Park De
Biesbosch is responsible for the development of the National park ‘De Biesbosch’ in the
field of nature, recreation and tourism.
This Strategy and Action plan comprehends not only the National Park, but also includes
its surrounding area. This ‘Biesbosch-region’ is roughly indicated with a dotted line in the
map in figure 1. This region covers an area of approximately 400 square kilometres. The
surroundings of the National Park mainly consist of agricultural land. The area comprises
several smaller cities and villages and also the city of Dordrecht. In total the Biesboschregion count about 235.000 inhabitants. Administratively the area belongs to two
provinces and 7 municipalities.
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Figure 1: The Biesbosch-region
1.2 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE BIESBOSCH
For some years now, organisations in the Biesbosch are working together to achieve
sustainable tourism development in the Biesbosch-region. Amongst others, this resulted
in:
•
A training course Biesbosch-hospitality for interested entrepreneurs in the field of
recreation;
•
Many arrangements for visitors organised by entrepreneurs themselves;
•
A vision on tourism and recreation in the Biesbosch-region (developed in 2008 in
cooperation with local stakeholders)
Recently an important step towards strong and efficient cooperation in the Biesbosch has
been taken: the different management authorities of the different parts of the National
Park have merged. The former “Natuur- en Recreatieschap De Hollandse Biesbosch” and
“Recreatieschap Nationaal Park De Biesbosch” now form “Parkschap Nationaal Park De
Biesbosch”.
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1.3 THE EUROPEAN CHARTER
Now, stakeholders are ready to take the next step in strengthening the cooperation in
the region. Together they want to create a sustainable future for the Biesbosch-region;
sustainable in terms of ecology as well as economy.
By the stakeholders, the European Charter is seen as a vehicle to achieve this. The
Charter itself, and (maybe more important) the process towards the application for the
Charter, will support the stakeholders in formulating aims for the future and in working
together to achieve them in an efficient way.
1.4 THIS STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN
This Strategy and Action Plan presents the main challenges and opportunities for
sustainable tourism in the Biesbosch. It also reflects the aims of the involved
organisations and addresses the activities they are planning to implement in the coming
5 years.
In chapter 2 the area is assessed on (amongst others) its natural values, the cooperation
in the region and social and economic situation. This chapter ends with an overview of
the most important Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT). Chapter
3 presents the aims for the region, which are elaborated by the stakeholders involved. In
chapter 4 these aims are translated into concrete actions for the period 2012 until 2017.
In the last chapter the strategy for implementation and monitoring is explained.
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2 ASSESSMENT
2.1 COOPERATION IN THE REGION
As stated earlier, within the Biesbosch-region many stakeholders are working together,
e.g. in marketing (like the organisation “Brabant aan de Biesbosch”) and in developing
arrangements between entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, cooperation in the Biesbosch stays
a challenge:
•
there are the physical borders (2 big rivers, with lots of traffic) that complicate
easy and fast travelling between different parts of the Biesbosch;
•
there are many administrative borders; the Biesbosch-region is situated on the
domain of seven municipalities and two provinces, all with their own visions,
policies and stakeholders groups (see annex 2);
Because of these challenges, cooperation in the Biesbosch-region needs further
strengthening. A good start has been made in developing the joint vision on tourism in
2008 (“Ondergedompeld in de Biesbosch”), the merge of the two management
authorities and (of course) developing this Strategy and Action Plan.
2.2 THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SITUATION1
IN GENERAL
The population in the Biesbosch-region counts around 235.000 inhabitants. They are
however unequally spread over the region. Half of the population lives in the municipality
of Dordrecht. The other half is concentrated in the smaller towns and villages like Made,
Geertruidenberg and Werkendam (see figure 2). The countryside in the region and the
National Park the Biesbosch is inhabited by relatively few people: the National Park itself
counts only around 5 households. The age structure is similar to the structure of the
Netherlands as a whole: approx. 25% is younger than 20, 40% is between 20 and 50
and 35% is 50 years or older.
1
Source: CBS, 2011.
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Figure 2
Number of local inhabitants
The disposable income of the local inhabitants is around average (compared to the
Netherlands). In Dordrecht, Sliedrecht, Papendrecht and Hardinxveld-Giessendam this
income is a bit lower than average, in the other municipalities it is somewhat higher.
In total there are around 115.000 jobs2. This number has been stable for the last years.
Compared to the Netherlands, there are relatively more jobs in the industry and
healthcare, and less in (other) non-commercial services.
TOURISM AND RECREATION
For the current situation the economic importance of tourism and recreation in the
Biesbosch-region is analysed. The numbers below refer to the situation in 20103.
Lisa, 2010. Fulltime and parttime jobs.
All statistics are collected and analyzed in accordance to the Dutch ‘National T&R standard’,
developed by the Dutch provinces.
2
3
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Companies: In total there are 910 companies in the touristic and recreational sector in
the Biesbosch-region. Almost half of them (41%) belong to the catering industry. 373
companies are located in the municipality of Dordrecht. The municipalities of Drimmelen,
Geertruidenberg and Werkendam all count between 100 and 152 companies.
Hardinxveld-Giessendam, Papendrecht and Sliedrecht all count well under 100 companies
each.
Employment: As said before, the region counts around 115.000 jobs (fulltime and parttime). 4.000 of these jobs belong to the touristic-recreational sector. Almost half of the
jobs in T&R is located in the municipality of Dordrecht. The biggest sub-sector (with a
share of 55%) is the catering industry. The total share of the touristic-recreational sector
in the Biesbosch-area is 3,4%. Compared to the average in the Netherlands (5,9% in
2009) and in some provinces (Friesland: 6,7%, Groningen: 5,3% and Noord-Brabant:
6%) this is quite low. This suggests that there are possibilities to strengthen the tourismsector in the Biesbosch-area. Also: the analysis points out that the share of the touristicrecreational sector in the economy of the region (along with the number of jobs in
absolute terms) is slowly decreasing (from 3,7% in 2000, to 3,4% in 2010). So the first
step for the touristic sector is to counter this development.
2.3 NATURAL, CULTURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES
The abiotic elements (and their development) form the basis for the current state of the
Biesbosch-region. In the Middle ages the delta area of several rivers consisted of many
small islands, creeks and water courses. In a natural process, sandbars with vegetation
arose. Local inhabitants started influencing this process by harvesting reed, followed by
planting and conducting willow vegetations. Still, the history of the willow culture in the
Biesbosch is visible in the landscape and can be experienced in the Biesbosch Museum.
Around 1900 many parts of the Biesbosch are reclaimed from the water (impoldered).
After the flood disaster (Watersnoodramp) in 1953, the Deltaworks are developed as a
protection against the sea. This changed the Biesbosch: the area now is only connected
to the North Sea by the ‘Nieuwe Waterweg’, which means the natural tide has diminished
drastically. Because of this the fishermen disappeared almost completely out of the
Biesbosch.
The Biesbosch can be regarded as a crucial environmental and ecological crossroad.
Because of this the area is unique in the Netherlands as well as in Europe. Its ecological
value is evidenced (a.o.) by the fact the area is indicated as Wetland and is part of the
European Natura 2000-network of protected areas. Crossroad the Biesbosch consists of
three crossing lines:
•
East-west: The Biesbosch in the Delta of the rivers Rhine and Meuse. Together
with other core natural areas as Fort Sint Andries en Gelderse Poort, the
Biesbosch functions as a crucial area for the dispersion of e.g. the Beaver and
specific delta-flora.
•
West-east: the Biesbosch is influenced by the Sea by its tide and salt water.
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•
North-south v.v.: the Biesbosch is also part of the coastal zone of the Atlantic.
Therefore it is an important resting area for migrating birds.
•
Diagonal line: finally the Biesbosch lies in the ‘Blue axis’ (NL: Natte as) of the
Netherlands. The ambition is to connect, strengthen and enlarge the existing blue
areas.
Figure 3: The Biesbosch as an ‘ecological crossroad’
Finally, next to these history and natural resources, The Biesbosch–region has a rich
cultural heritage. Main sights for tourists are: the historic centre of the city of Dordrecht,
fortified city of Geertruidenberg and the ‘Nieuwe Hollandse
Waterlinie’4.
2.4 TOURISM FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Below the tourism facilities and services in the Biesbosch area are
described for: water and land based tourism and recreation, food and
drinks and visitor attractions.
WATER BASED TOURISM
In the Biesbosch area there are many possibilities for water based tourism and
recreation. There are around 9 entrepreneurs active in the field of water cruises and
excursions. Also in the city centre of Dordrecht some day cruise businesses are active.
Water cruises (and ships) are available from small to bigger and can be simple or more
luxurious. Many of the day cruises can be combined with guided walks on land. The
biggest river cruise company is Zilvermeeuw.
4
New Dutch Waterline which was a military line of defense. The line was established as a
protective ring approximately 85 km long and 3–5 km wide around the Dutch cities of Muiden,
Utrecht, Vreeswijk and Gorinchem. It was the main Dutch defense line from 1815 till 1940.
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There are 13 businesses for hiring boats. The hiring possibilities for canoes and
electrically driven boats is adequate, for hiring smaller and bigger yachts there are less.
Private boat owners have many possibilities for a multiple-day-trip. There are around 18
marinas in the area, which have a total amount of 5.700 landing stages. Also within the
National Park, there are possibilities for a 3-night-stay.
LAND BASED TOURISM
On land there are many land based activities to undertake. The cycling network (outside
the National Park, but within the Biesbosch-region) is well developed with good
signposting. Options for improvement exist in bridging some water courses by ferry
connections and in developing thematic routes. Also for hikers there are many interesting
paths to take, for example in the Hollandse Biesbosch Recreation Area, on the ‘Eiland van
Dordrecht’ alongside the river Nieuwe Merwede, around the Spieringsluis and in the
Elzen-area. On the south side of the river Amer
there are less hiking-possibilities. Additionally: two
LAW’s (het Floris-V en het Waterliniepad) run
through the Biesbosch. Altogether the coherency of
the hiking-network can be improved. Within the
National Park, guided tours with a forest ranger are
organised, for all kinds of target groups (children,
hikers, canoeists…). These tours focus on the
natural as well as historic stories of the area.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
With the exception of the city of Dordrecht, the possibilities for a stay in a hotel are
limited: there are only five small hotels (e.g. near the ’Kop van ’t Land’ and the
Spieringsluis) and two bigger ones with over a hundred beds (Golden Tulip Hotel in
Papendrecht and De Korenbeurs in Made). The same goes for the camping sites: there
are 16 (very) small campings in the region and only two bigger ones (in Hank and
Drimmelen). There are a few accommodations with only a few rooms/chalets, and three
bigger ones (in Dordrecht, Raamsdonk and Hank). Finally there is a (slowly) growing
number of B&B’s: now there are around 40 in the Biesbosch-region.
Together, the Biesbosch-area counts 4.000 beds at hotels, B&B’s and bungalow parks,
1.200 campsites and (as mentioned before) more than 5.800 landing stages.
FOOD AND DRINKS
In the south part of the Biesbosch-region there are quite a few restaurants and cafés.
There is however room for quality improvement. In the Eastern part the offer is limited,
quantitative as well as qualitative. In the city of Dordrecht the offer is good.
A nice initiative which promotes the use of local produce in cooking is
‘Streekkoken’(www.streekkoken.nl). This caterer offers all kinds of cooking experiences
in the Biesbosch-region, in which local produces is being cooked and served. The events
take place in people’s own garden, but also in nature areas, on camping sites and in
collaboration with other entrepreneurs. Also, a network of farmers exists that cooperate
in promoting agricultural produces from the region.
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VISITOR ATTRACTIONS/EVENTS
Next to the water and land based facilities and services there are specific visitor
attractions in the region. Main attractions are the two visitor-centres (Biesboschcentrum
Drimmelen and Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht) focussing mainly on the ecological values
of the Biesbosch, the Biesbosch Museum (in Werkendam) focussing on the cultural
history of the region and museum Twintighoeven which focuses on both natural and
cultural heritage. Another (relatively big) attraction is the observatory Mercurius, near
Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht. Additionally there are some
smaller musea in Sliedrecht, Werkendam,
Raamsdonksveer and Geertruidenberg. Of course,
Dordrecht has multiple bigger museums and cultural
institutes and attractions. Finally, Dordrecht has a centre
for education on nature/environment (Weizigt) and a
visitor centre for the city (Intree).
Biesbosch Museum
Additionally to the musea and visitor centres there are (with the exception of the city of
Dordrecht) few attractions to be found in the area. All attractions can be characterised as
relatively small and are concentrated around the marina’s. Examples are a golf course,
an indoor playground for children, some swimming pools and a sauna. In the region the
number of events is limited. There are some smaller festivals (wielerronde,
Vlaggetjesdag), an open Marina-day and fortress-days in Geertruidenberg. In Dordrecht
some bigger events can be visited, like: book market, Christmas market, the Wantij
concerts, open monuments-day and more, see also www.vvvdordrecht.nl.
ACCESSIBILITY
As can be seen in figure 1, by car the Biesbosch-region is well accessible by multiple
highways. Because of this and its location the Biesbosch can be reached within one hour
from the whole Randstad. By car only the edges of the National Park are accessible, due
to the many watercourses.
The accessibility by public transport is limited: the main entrance to the National Park is
via the train station of Dordrecht followed by a short bus trip. Access is also possible by
bus via the stations in Breda and Lage Zwaluwe.
A fast and attracting way of visiting the region is by fast ferry and Waterbus, which
navigates between Rotterdam and the urban area called “Drechtsteden” (including
Dordrecht). One of the stops is in the Hollandse Biesbosch recreation area.
2.5 CURRENT VISITORS AND FUTURE MARKETS
VISITOR NUMBERS AND ORIGIN
The Biesbosch region attracts roughly 1.5 million visitors a year, excluding the city of
Dordrecht. The majority – about 425,000 people – visit the Hollandse Biesbosch
Recreation Area. The National Park attracts around 0.5 million visitors a year.
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The Biesbosch region encompasses three visitor centres: Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht,
Biesboschcentrum Drimmelen and the Biesbosch Museum in Werkendam. These centres
attract more than 200.000 visitors a year. In addition there is a nature information
centre in Twintighoeven. The estimated visitor number is several thousands.
Most visitors to the Biesbosch come from the region: mainly from Zuid-Holland and in a
lesser degree from Noord-Brabant. Only 9% of the visitors do not originate from these
two provinces. More than half of the visitors of the Hollandse Biesbosch Recreation Area
originate from Dordrecht.
VISITOR MOTIVES AND PROFILE
Visitors to the Biesbosch can be distinguished in two groups: water based tourists (43%)
and land based tourists (57%). The main motives to recreate for both groups are: ‘to
spend time together’ and ‘to get away and to recharge’. One is attracted by the nature,
the landscape, the activities and the fact that one lives close by. 53 % of the parties
visiting the Biesbosch consist of two persons.
Profile water based tourists
Boat owners are for the most part from the region. Water based tourists who visit the
Biesbosch by car travel on average 29 kilometre (one way distance). In the Biesbosch
51% travel by cabin boat, 13 % by open motor boat and 8% by speed boat. The average
age of boat owners is 40 to 65 years. On average one travels in groups of 2.9 persons
In addition to water based tourists travelling by privately owned boats some 100,000
passengers visit the Biesbosch by excursion vessels. Of these passengers only one third
originates from the direct surroundings of the Biesbosch. The average age of these
passengers is 51 years old.
Water based tourists stay on average 3 hours and 11 minutes in the Biesbosch. Repeat
visits are common: 94 % indicates to have visited the Biesbosch before. Only 4% of the
respondents (water based tourists) indicated they spend on food or beverages. This is a
very small percentage. If they spend something on food or beverages, they spend an
average of €42 per company. A company exists of 2,8 persons. This is relatively high.
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Profile land based tourists
Hiking and cycling are the land based tourists’ main activities. Often one hikes for over
an hour. Also passive activities take place: 27 % of the land based tourists come to (sit
down and) relax or to sun bathe. Regional inhabitants hike short distances relatively
more often than the average land based tourists.
The average length of a land based tourists’ visit to the Biesbosch is almost the same as
the water based tourists’ visit: 3 hours and 16 minutes. 68 % of the land based tourists
state to have been in the Biesbosch at least once more in the last year.
Non visitors
About 25 % of the inhabitants of the region do not visit the Biesbosch. The main
explanation given to not visit the Biesbosch is lack of time. More than half of the nonvisitors state they do intent to visit the Biesbosch in the near future. Preferably to visit by
excursion vessel or to a hike a short distance.
2.6 PERCEPTIONS OF VISITORS
In general visitors are satisfied about the facilities offered in the Biesbosch. Nevertheless
water based tourists and land based tourists have different experiences and needs.
WATER BASED TOURISTS
Even though all facilities in the Biesbosch are positively evaluated by water based
tourists the degree of satisfaction fluctuates. Water based tourists especially appreciate
the Biesbosch Museum, the visitor centres and the facilities for hiking. The landing stages
and sandy beaches are the least valued (score of respectively 6.4 and 6.3 out of 10). In
addition 39% of the tourists would like more landing stages in the area, as well as waste
bins (17%), toilets 16%) and hospitality businesses (15%).
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LAND BASED TOURISTS
In general the recreational possibilities and experience are positively evaluated with 7.8
out of 10 points. The accessibility and the absence of surrounding noise is considered to
be the most important aspects in regard to recreation in the Biesbosch. These aspects
are valued with scores of respectively 8.0 and 7.8. Land based tourism in the Biesbosch
is mainly focused on hiking and cycling. Hiking facilities are considered the third most
important aspect for recreation in the Biesbosch and score 7.6 points. Also cycling paths
are considered to be available in sufficient amount and condition (scores of 7.6 and 7.7).
The lowest scores are allocated to sufficient and user friendly benches (scores of 6.8 and
7.0).
Visitors have a positive outlook on the visitor centres’ accessibility, customer service and
exhibitions.
2.7 FUTURE MARKETS
Finally we consider the general market context within which tourism in the Biesboschregion has to operate. Below a set of key pointers5 are given which are relevant in regard
to tourism in this region.
SOCIODEMOGRAFIC DEVELOPMENTS
•
Increasing aging of the population: one million additional persons over 50 in 10
years
•
Senior citizens have more time and money available and are mobile and active for
a longer period of time.
•
The recreational use and meaning of the direct surroundings increases (partly due
to the aging of the population)
•
Dejuvenation: decrease of the share of youth in the population
•
Increase of the amount of households; decrease in the size of households
•
A more individualistic spending of leisure time.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
•
Increase competition domestic and foreign markets
•
Moderate economic growth
•
Budget cuts in the public sector
•
Decline of buying power of consumers
Mainly derived from the research report ‘Evenwicht tussen natuur en recreatie’ (Leisure Result
2007) and updated.
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CONSUMER TRENDS
•
Ecologically responsible consumer behaviour is popular
•
Increasing demand for a natural experience, quiescence and space
DAY TRIPS
•
Decrease in the amount of day trips of 8 % (between 2001/2002 and 2006/2007)
•
Although hiking and cycling day trips show a significant decrease in numbers in
recent years (27%), both are important activities in the Netherlands
•
Visiting an attraction, point of interest or event and recreational shopping show
the largest growth (respectively 8 and 19%)
•
Increase in expenditures on day trips (in total and per person)
•
80% of day trips concern a destination within 30 kilometres from the place of
residence.
•
More recreational navigation, predominantly by senior citizens
•
Increase in the amount and size of boats
•
Increase in berthing, walking and visits of facilities (beaches, hospitality
businesses, museums)
•
Increase in chartering, hop on/ hop off and excursions.
•
The amount of landing stages in marinas has stabilised between 2000 and 2006
•
Decrease in the amount of sailing boats (9%)and increase in the amount of
motorboats (11%) 2000 and 2006
•
Increase water sports clubs (10%), canoe and rowing clubs (40%) and members
of canoe and rowing clubs (30%) between 1997 and 2006.
OVERNIGHT STAYS
•
Increase in domestic vacations
•
Stabilization of the total amount of domestic overnight stays
•
Increasing amount of short vacations, especially in the winter season
•
Rising popularity of touristic/ short stay accommodations at the expense of
seasonal accommodation and renting a site year round.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENTS
•
Decrease of water sports in the Biesbosch due to increase of boat sizes
•
Increased use of ‘Aakvlaai’ (new part of the Biesbosch) consistent with the original
principles
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OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
•
Increased use of internet and electronic media in the orientation phase of the visit
as well as during the visit.
•
Increase in mobility need and decrease in mobility due to capacity related issues.
•
Growing need for authenticity and ‘new religion’ in coherence with the demand for
a high quality experience.
•
Health is an increasingly important issue. This results in more exercise as well as
a growing need for relaxation.
•
Area managers of National Parks aim for nature, recreation and education of
higher quality than elsewhere in nationally protected areas (Ecologische
Hoofdstructuur, natura 2000)
•
Possible elevating costs of air traffic lead to a decrease in cheap short holidays.
This might lead to an increase in short domestic holidays.
•
Agricultural land is increasingly valued as an important recreational space. The
areas of Natuurmonumenten and Staatsbosbeheer become more and more part of
a bigger recreational area, but lack connecting cycling and hiking routes.
OVERALL CONCLUSION
The overall conclusion of this assessment can be summarised as follows:
The Biesbosch-region is a unique area with high ecological and landscape values. This
wetland functions as a crucial connection between other natural nature areas, in the
Netherlands but also on European scale. For tourists the main reason for a visit are boat
trips, walking and cycling, with the Biesbosch as a natural decor/scenery. However,
despite its high values and location near the metropolitan area of the Randstad, the
Biesbosch-region is fairly unknown. The bigger part of the visitors comes from the
surrounding areas.
There are several reasons for this. One of them being the weak touristic image. Too little
is done with the narrative and natural values of the Biesbosch to attract tourists to the
region. Also, the accessibility of the National Park over land is limited, mainly at the
South side of the Park. This limited accessibility can be seen as an amenity of the Park,
creating quiet zones within the Park. Also, the possibilities for a stay are limited, there
are only few and little events and cooperation is fragmented.
We conclude that the touristic and recreational potentials of the Biesbosch are not being
fully utilised at the moment. This means that there are opportunities for improvement of
tourism and recreation facilities and services in the near future, of which the ecological
and cultural-historic meaning will benefit. The involved organisations are aware of this
and work hard to seize these chances. This is reflected by (for example) the high grades
tourists have given the area and (e.g.) the joint development of the Biesboschnewspaper and Biesbosch touristic guide. Organisations now want to proceed down the
path they have taken so far. This Strategy and Action Plan reflects this aim to do this
together in a more coordinating way.
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2.8 SUMMARY ASSESSMENT – SWOT
Strenghts
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Status National Park
Exceptional qualities Biesbosch
Unique location combining nature
and water
Presence of cultural history
Authentic Dutch landscape
Zoning small and/ or fast boats
Facilities for canoeing and electric
boats
Attractive sailing area
Attractive and quiet area
according to visitors
Plenty information facilities
Concentration of visitors and the
functioning of the Hollandse
Biesbosch and Aakvlaai
Facilities land based tourism in the
Hollandse Biesbosch Recreation
Area
Offer of excursions on water, in
nature and day trips
Biesbosch users platform
Zoning principles for recreational
use
Location near urban areas
(Randstad and Brabantstad)
Weaknesses
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Opportunities
Recreational experience polders the
Biesbosch
3 visitor centres / museums might be too
much: inefficient and unclear
Accessibility from the south: lacking ferry
connections/ watertaxis from Lage
Zwaluwe, Drimmelen and Geertruidenberg
Non-motorised boat access from
Drimmelen
Limited gate function Drimmelen
Unclear gate function Werkendam
Limited accessibility by water of several
Biesbosch areas
Limited offer of exceptional, luxurious or
nature oriented accommodation and
packages (on land)
Mediocre offer hospitality businesses
Mediocre land based tourism products
South of the Nieuwe Merwede River
Lack of nationally noted attractions and
events in Southern part of the Biesbosch
Limited corporate cooperation and
cooperation between governments
Lagging sense of economic value tourism
Limited tourism tradition
Unclear and weak touristic image
Dispersed marketing and promotion
efforts, lack of joint management
Political inefficiency National Park
management committee (overlegorgaan)
Relation NP and other parts of the region
(marketing/signposting)
Visitors attracted by quiescence and those
who want to spend time together and seek
amusement are not effectively separated.
No unity in the Biesbosch region in keeping
the rules for misconduct in water sport and
on land.
21
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fusion of nature and recreation
organisations into Parkschap in
cooperation with Staatsbosbeheer.
Further coorperation between visitor
centres and Biesbosch Museum
Nieuwe Dordtse Biesbosch and
Ontpoldering Noordwaard: additional
natural and recreational areas
Cooperation Drechtsteden
Growing market senior citizens
Increase expenditures day trips
Large interest in cycling and hiking
Growing market short stay
accommodations
Increase visits attractions, point of
interests and events
Growing demand for authentic
experiences
Increase recreational boating and boat
rentals (also threat)
Professionalization entrepreneurs
Stimulate repeat visits and the use of
facilities by passengers of tour boats
Increased use of electronic media
Improving water quality
Possibilities of maintaining rules in the
Biesbosch by permits
Threats
•
•
•
•
•
Competition tourism market
Continuity visitor centres and
museum
Decrease day trips hiking and
cycling
Increased need for mobility
versus the decrease of real
mobility
Decrease number of holidays in
summer
3. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT
3.1 AMBITION
It is the Biesbosch-region’s ambition to be a national frontrunner in sustainable tourism
development. The region aims at increasing the economic and social impact of nature, recreation
and tourism in a sustainable way. With this ambition, the ecological capacity of the Biesboschregion is leading.
Actions to reach this ambition are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Sustainable use of the area (recreational, agricultural, and other use);
Sustainable management and spatial planning (zoning);
To establish the identity of the Biesbosch as a National Park;
New sustainable facilities and sights in the Biesbosch-region;
The attraction of new (inter)national target groups to these facilities;
Close cooperation with tourism enterprises in the region.
IDENTITY BIESBOSCH-REGION
The shared identity forms the bases for the touristic-recreational development and branding of the
Biesbosch-region. The identity is based on a series of interactive sessions with several stakeholders
in 2008.
An unique and dynamic fresh water tidal area, a mysterious and adventurous National Park, rough,
untouched and full of history of the battle with and against water.
The Biesbosch’ identity consists of several dimensions:
•
•
•
Physical: the physical identity of the Biesbosch-region is defined by the fresh water tidal
character of the area; the dynamics of rivers and sea and the special nature qualities of the
national park.
Historical: The Biesbosch-region is the scene of battle with and against the water. In the past it
was also the scene of battle between Holland and Brabant, the dynamics of the water were also
used in a defence lines “Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie” and “Zuiderwaterlinie” and the
Biesbosch-region was also a heavy scene of battle in World War Two.
Social: The dynamics of the water hasn’t only shaped the landscape though the ages, but also
the way of life in the Biesbosch-region. Up until today the people use the Biesbosch for
economic use. In the past: reclaiming land from water, fishing, reed and willow cutting. Today:
tourism, recreation, recreational fishing, giving land back to water.
The key values of the Biesbosch are: unique tidal nature, landscape of water and land, navigation,
peace and quiet, the beaver, mysterious, adventures and the historic stories and features. A wet
land, marshy and typically Dutch area, which is best experienced from the water.
22
3.2 AIMS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN THE BIESBOSCH
1. Balancing the recreational use and the ecological values: the quality of the environment is the
primary resource for tourism, bringing both opportunities and responsibilities.
2. Significant growth in local tourism income.
3. Engaging local communities and other visitors in the sustainable management of the Biesbosch.
4. Cooperation with entrepreneurs in the sustainable development of tourism.
3.3 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
1. OFFERING A UNIQUE AND HIGH QUALITY BIESBOSCH EXPERIENCE
The Biesbosch-region offers its visitors:
•
a unique nature experience. A mysterious freshwater swampland with tidal influence, that
you have to discover yourself. Discover the tracks of a beaver or spot one of the numerous
birds. Some parts of the Biesbosch are only accessible by boat.
•
The Biesbosch also offers its visitors numerous stories and remains of the ongoing and
centuries-old battle with and against the water.
•
Last but not least the Biesbosch offers its visitors the opportunity to escape from the daily
rush and enjoy true peace and quietness.
To do:
•
Conserving and enhancement of the nature and heritage qualities.
•
Realising a set of products and packages that provide visitors with the special Biesbosch
experience and understanding the Biesbosch’ environment and heritage.
•
Make sure visitors are aware of the range of places that can be visited and encourage
visitors to explore the Biesbosch as a whole.
•
Enlarging and improving the accessibility of the Biesbosch by visitors.
•
Implementing and further development of the recreational zoning plan for the Biesbosch.
This strategic objective contributes to Charter Principles 4, 5, 6 and 7
23
2. ENCOURAGING AWARENESS OF NATURE AND HERITAGE QUALITIES OF THE
BIESBOSCH AND OF SUSTAINABILITY IN GENERAL
This strategic objective is to be reached by:
•
Being an example in sustainable behaviour;
•
Communicating the natural and cultural heritage;
•
Involving specific target groups (e.g. local young adults) in the development of the region
This strategic objective contributes to Charter Principles 3, 5, 6
3. IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF VISITOR’S FACILITIES AND SERVICES AND
STIMULATE NEW FACILITIES AND EVENTS THAT STRENGTHEN THE BIESBOSCH
IDENTITY
This objective is to be addressed especially in the field of:
•
Hotel, guest house and campsite accommodation. Characteristic Biesbosch accommodation;
•
Restaurant facilities; the use of local products;
•
Events: nature experience trekkings. There are several nature trekking available, more
diversity is desirable;
•
Realising the Biesbosch gateways;
•
Recreational areas and sights for tourists and the local inhabitants;
•
Attracting and stimulating innovative entrepreneurs and encouraging investments.
This strategic objective contributes to Charter Principles 4, 8, 9,10
4. ENCOURAGE VISITORS, LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND ENTERPRISES TO
CONSERVE AND ENHANCE THE ENVIRONMENT AND ENGAGE IN VISITOR
MANAGEMENT IN SENSITIVE LOCATIONS
This strategic objective is to be reached by:
•
Implementing, further development and communication of the recreational zoning plan for
the Biesbosch.
•
Joint development of new Biesbosch-events, fitting the Biesbosch identity;
24
•
Developing new policies for navigating (including overnight stay on the water) in the
National Park;
•
Careful monitoring of the effects of the zoning plan.
•
Enhancing involvement of local communities by establishing an (in)formal group of advisors
from the local communities for the national park.
This strategic objective contributes to Charter Principles 3, 8, 9, 10
5. BRANDING OF THE BIESBOSCH REGION, BASED ON THE IDENTITY OF THE
BIESBOSCH AND ENLARGING THE BRAND AWARENESS OF THE BIESBOSCH
•
Branding of the Biesbosch as one area. The Biesbosch is promoted as a whole: a naturereserve and recreation area. Tourists and other visitors can approach the Biesbosch from
several directions.
•
The shared identity is leading for branding and promotion.
•
Attracting and retaining creative people in the field of literature, art, etc, craftsmen and
scientists to the Biesbosch as ambassadors.
•
Intensifying and formalising the cooperation with Biesbosch entrepeneurs.
This strategic objective contributes to Charter Principles 5 and 9
3.4 TARGET GROUPS & ZONING
TARGET GROUPS
The target groups of the Biesbosch region are:
1. Inhabitants of the region (0-10 km)
2. Day visitors (10 km and further, particularly from the Randstad and Brabantstad)
3. Water based tourists (day visitors from surrounding marinas and recreational sailors from the
Netherlands as a whole)
4. Domestic tourists (multi day visitors from the Netherlands)
5. Foreign tourist (in particular day visitors from Flanders and special interest visitor from several
countries).
Some specific groups are - due to various reasons - considered to be of great importance and
require special attention. These groups are:
25
Children
Various organisations in the Biesbosch region are responsible for the development of (even) more
products focused on nature education and experiences for children. This is not an easy task given
the competition with other leisure activities. In addition children ask for a special and
contemporary approach.
Disabled persons
The aging of the population leads to a growing group of
disabled visitors. Also for them spending time in nature is a
pleasant leisure activity. Extra facilities aimed at this group
will be realised in various sites, such as hardened hiking
trails or a by car accessible view point, birding location or
fishing dock.
Dutch visitors of foreign origin
A high percentage of the inhabitants of Dordrecht and the
southern part of the Randstad are of foreign (non western) origin and show different preferences
for (outdoor) recreation. Their main activities correspond to the recreational motive ‘to spend time
together’.
Others
There is a rising interest in horse riding and horse driving. On the Island of Dordrecht the current
situation is not ideal, as activities are not concentrated and there are hardly any riding routes. In
the development plans of the nature and recreation are Nieuwe Dordtse Biesbosch a concentration
of riding schools and an infrastructure with more riding routes are foreseen.
ZONING: RECREATION MOTIVES STAATSBOSBEHEER
Staatsbosbeheer makes use of recreation motives to anticipate on the expectations of visitors and
to develop appropriate policy. There are five recreation motives:
•
To spend time together; visitors in search of amusement (NL: gezelligen)
•
To get away and to recharge; visitors in search of quiescence (NL: rustzoekers)
•
To getaway and learn; special interest visitors (NL: geïnteresseerden)
•
To immerse into the world of flora and fauna; visitors devoted to nature, naturalists (NL:
natuurvorsers)
•
To take on a physical challenge; visitors in search for a challenge, thrill seekers (NL:
uitdagingzoekers)
These categories of recreation motives are used for zoning the visitors across the region. This
allows for directed measures to anticipate to the specific needs, wishes and expectations of these
groups of visitors. Table 1 and the accompanying map (figure 5) indicate the kind of activities of
each motive-group undertakes and shows which areas of the Biesbosch-region suit their needs.
26
Figure 5: Spreading of motive-groups across the Biesbosch-region
27
Table 1: Recreational motives, their activities and locations in the Biesbosch
Recreation motive
Activity
Hiking, cycling,
boating, canoeing,
visiting outdoor
café, playing, dog
walking, cruise
Origin
Location/opportunity
Facilities
0-30 km
In and around place of
residence, Hollandse
Biesbosch, de Elzen,
Brabantse Biesbosch,
Rietplaat, Aakvlaai, cruise
companies
Camping Kurenpolder,
Viersprong, Biesbosch
visitor centre, Aakvlaai,
anchor Block, short(er)
hiking and cycling trails,
cruises
0-10 km
In and around place of
residence, preferably more
quiet locations. Hollandse
Biesbosch, de Elzen,
Spieringsluis
(More) quiet hiking and
cycling trails, view points
Hiking, cycling,
boating, canoeing,
site seeing,
museum or visitor
centre visit,
excursion, cruise
0-150
km
Core areas Biesbosch
National Park , (aquatic)
surroundings Biesbosch
Museum, visitor centres,
cruises, observation
shelters, (thematic) hiking
trails, canoe rentals,
(thematic) cruises
To immerse into the
world of flora and
fauna/ naturalists
NL: Natuurvorsers
Hiking, cycling,
boating, canoeing,
observation
0-150
km
Core areas Biesbosch
National Park , (aquatic)
surroundings Biesbosch
Museum, visitor centres,
cruises, observation
shelters, (thematic) hiking
trails, canoe rentals
To take on a physical
challenge/ thrill
seekers
NL: Uitdagingzoekers
Canoeing, long
distance hiking,
cycling
0-10 km
In and around place of
residence, Hollandse
Biesbosch, de Elzen, boating
area Biesbosch region
Trails, hardened trails,
canoeing facilities
To spend time
together/ amusement
NL: Gezelligen
To getaway and
recharge /quiescence
NL: Rustzoekers
To getaway and
learn/ special interest
NL: Geïnteresseerden
Hiking, cycling,
boating, canoeing,
fishing
28
29
4. ACTION PLAN
In this chapter the activities that are planned to be taken the coming 5 years to meet the five
strategic objectives are described. Additionally, a short description is given on the (most
important) actions that already have been taken, and form a solid base for future actions.
1. OFFERING AN UNIQUE AND HIGH QUALITY BIESBOSCH EXPERIENCE
Action taken: Already, stakeholders in the Biesbosch-region are working on developing a unique
experience for its visitors. For instance: many entrepreneurs offer joint arrangements,
Staatbosbeheer organises guided tours to the most interesting and mysterious places in the
Biesbosch, and municipalities and the Parkschap are working on the improvement of recreational
infrastructure on land as well as water. Recently the first hospitality training course for
entrepreneurs was organised.
Future actions:
a. Stimulating electric navigating
b. Analysis of best practices in the field of innovative entrepreneurs and facilities in foreign
National Parks/ Europarcs.
c. Development of uniform recreational products for strengthening the Biesbosch experience like:
maps, signposting, brochures etc.
d. Expanding the network of entrepreneurs that will act as official Biesbosch-host (recruiting and
training).
e. Improving the standard and uniformity of volunteers (recruitment, training, visibility, insurance,
conditions).
2. ENCOURAGING AWARENESS OF NATURE AND HERITAGE QUALITIES OF THE
BIESBOSCH AND OF SUSTAINABILITY IN GENERAL
Action taken: Within the region there are many ways in which the local inhabitants and visitors are
made aware of the natural and cultural values of the area. Examples are: signposting, the
information provided in the several centres/ musea and during guided tours, information on
websites and in brochures, the Biesbosch-newspaper and several educational programmes.
30
Future actions
a. Development of a joint and uniform information programme for tourists and the local community
(regarding e.g.: information panels and brochures).
b. Joint development of an educational programme for elementary schools in the region on nature
and heritage.
c. Adaptation of the current management plans for water based recreation for smarter zoning
(balancing nature and recreation).
d. Development of new educational programmes for the primary and secondary recreational
gateways of the region for tourists.
e. Strengthening the relationship with enterprises, regarding communication and education on
‘sustainability’.
f. Research on the communication of ‘sustainability’ towards visitors of National Parks/Europarks.
3. IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF VISITOR’S FACILITIES AND SERVICES AND
STIMULATE NEW FACILITIES AND EVENTS THAT STRENGTHEN THE BIESBOSCH
IDENTITY
Action taken: The last months many actions have been taken to reach this aim. A large-scale
activity has been the plan development for the Noordwaard and the Nieuwe Dordtse Biesbosch:
both being new natural and recreational areas in the region. Other important achievements are an
inventory of all facilities in the region (STEP-project), a research report on (a.o.) functions, target
groups ad level of sustainability of the existing and potential Biesbosch gateways (STEP project)
and implementing a ‘knooppuntensysteem’ for cyclists in the region (with exception of the National
Park).
Future actions:
a. Ongoing influencing plan development of Nieuwe Dordtse Biesbosch and Noordwaard in which
local inhabitants are actively involved.
b. Development of electric charging point for bicycles and boats.
c. Implementing the plan for sustainable expansion of the Biesbosch Museum (coming 3 years).
Ambition: growth towards 52.000 visitors each year.
d. Strengthening relations between National Park and other parts of the Biesbosch-region
(enterprises, governments and NGO’s).
e. Development of new ferry connections from Wantij to Helsloot, from Zuidhaven to Deeneplaat,
from Lage Zwaluwe to the Jacominapolder and from Drimmelen to Vissershang.
31
f. Plan development on enhancement of recreational gateways (information panels, recognisability
etc.)
g. Attracting new and innovative and sustainable enterprises to the region in the field of catering
industry, attractions and rental companies.
h. Organizing and implementing workshops to encourage local enterprises and active local
inhabitants to develop new tourism activities.
i. Expert meeting on visitor-centres 2.0.
j. Development of 4 walking paths (e.g. the Noordbovenpolderse kade and on the Deeneplaat).
k. Development of 3 new cycling paths (e.g. from Deeneplaat to Jacopminaplaat and from the
Aakvlaai to the ferry Steur.
l. Stimulating/facilitating the development of new accommodations: e.g the development of
farmhouse Zuileshoeve and a floating Ecolodge).
m. Landing stages: Research on landing stages (inventory of current situation and opportunities);
development of new stages in Polder Jantjesplaat/Noordbovenpolder.
n. Development of 2 new water routes.
o. Development of 1 plan for signposting.
p. Plan development on additional recreational facilities like canoe-infrastructure, bridle paths,
fishing scaffolds, watchtower (Petrusplaat), bird-boulevard and wheelchair paths.
q. Further development of innovative routes like: GPS-routes (starting at the visitor centres) and
routes using MORE labels (QR codes).
s. Creating 8 resting places
4. ENCOURAGE VISITORS, LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND ENTERPRISES TO
CONSERVE AND ENHANCE THE ENVIRONMENT AND ENGAGE IN VISITOR
MANAGEMENT IN SENSITIVE LOCATIONS
Action taken: Most important action is the zoning plan which is developed (in 2008) and
implemented. In addition, recently research is carried out on water sports in the Biesbosch.
Future actions:
a. Joint development of new Biesbosch-events.
b. Interest entrepreneurs to become holder of the Green Key: the international quality mark for
sustainable entrepreneurs in the field of recreation and tourism. Ambition: 5 Green key-companies
in 2011, 5 more in 2012.
32
c. Updating the zoning plan and elaborating concrete measures, including setting up of controlsystem
d. Implementing the measures derived from the research report on Water sports
e. Start-up of monitoring system regarding number of visitors, their activities and impact of
recreation/tourism on nature, landscape and economics.
f. Development of a set of Green Key-criteria for boat rental entrepreneurs
g. Establishing a Biesbosch Fund in which enterprises can invest money for both their own benefit
and the national park.
5. BRANDING OF THE BIESBOSCH REGION, BASED ON THE IDENTITY OF THE
BIESBOSCH AND ENLARGING THE BRAND AWARENESS OF THE BIESBOSCH
Action taken: Examples of actions that have been carried out are:
•
A joint Biesbosch-newspaper and VVV-guide have been developed to inform tourists and
local inhabitants of all possible activities and events in the Biesbosch-region.
•
At this stage, a joint web-portal is being developed. This website (in which entrepreneurs
will take part in) will function as a gateway to the Biesbosch, and will be the first step of
visitors to plan their trip to the Biesbosch.
Future actions:
a. Implementing, improving and expanding the web-portal for the Biesbosch: integrating current
website into one Biesbosch portal for tourists (see also: www.np-debiesbosch.nl).
b. Improving the uniformity in the appearance of the Biesbosch.
c. Development of a joint merchandising programme for Biesbosch-products (e.g. t-shirts,
agricultural products and cuddly beaver, also attention for local crafts as souvenirs).
d. Expanding collaboration on branding of the Biesbosch-region, including governments, NGO’s and
entrepreneurs.
e. Intensifying and formalising the cooperation with Biesbosch entrepreneurs by establishing a
network based on the already existing network of Brabant aan de Biesbosch, in cooperation with
the entrepreneurs from the north part of the Biesbosch.
33
5. IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING
In this chapter the strategy to implement the planned actions is described, as well as the way of
monitoring the progress of it.
5.1 IMPLEMENTING THE ACTIONPLAN
The organisation structure of the Biesbosch area and the National Park is a little bit confusing for
externals. In the figure below we have tried to make it visible in the most simple way: in the
middle, the most inner circle the Parkschap Board is situated; around this Board the management
organisation is in the 1st shell; in the second circle the direct initiators of the Parkschap are
mentioned and in the third circle other involved organisations and stakeholders.
The implementation of most actions will be done by The Parkschap. In some cases another
organisation (like Staatsbosbeheer, IVN or a municipality) is also directly involved. In the table
below this is explained in the column ‘Lead organisation’. Other involved organisations are
mentioned in the column beside. The position of those organisations in relation to the Parkschap is
clarified in the figure.
This Action Plan is summarised in table 2. For each action, the table indicates:
•
The year(s) in which the action is planned
•
The level of priority (high, medium, low)
•
Key organisations to lead the action
•
Other involved organisations/stakeholders.
34
TABLE 2: IMPLEMENTING THE ACTIONS
Action
1
Priority
Lead
organisation
electric
navigating
and
motorised navigating
non- 20112016
High
Parkschap
Medium
Parkschap
High
Parkschap
Medium
Parkschap /
IVN
Analysis of best practices foreign National
Parks/ Europarcs
Development of uniform recreational products
and services for strengthening the Biesbosch
experience
Expanding and maintaining network and
improving quality of official Biesbosch-hosts
20112014
Improving the standard and uniformity of
volunteers (recruitment, training, visibility,
insurance, conditions).
20112016
High
1e
Parkschap /
IVN
2
Encouraging awareness of Biesbosch qualities
20112012
20132014
High
Parkschap
Low
IVN
High
SBB
1b
1c
1d
2a
2b
2c
2d
2e
2f
3
3a
3b
3c
3d
3e
Stakeholders
Unique Biesbosch experience
Stimulating
1a
Year
Development of a joint and uniform
information programme of nature activities
Development of common educational
programme for elementary schools
Adaptation of the current regulation schemes
for water based recreation
20112013
20112016
20112012
Development of new educational activities for 2014- Medium
2016
recreational gateways
Strengthening relation with enterprises,
High
2011regarding communication and education on
2016
sustainability
Research on the communication of
2011- High
‘sustainability’
2012
Improve visitors facilities and services and stimulate new
Influencing plan development Nieuwe Dordtse 2011- High
Biesbosch and Noordwaard
2013
Development of electric charging point for
2011- High
bicycles and boats
2012
Sustainable expansion of the Biesbosch
2011- High
Museum
2013
Strengthening relations between National Park
High
2011and other parts of the Biesbosch-region
2016
Development of new ferry connections
20112014
Enhancement of recreational gateways
20112012
3f
35
Parkschap
/IVN
Parkschap
Parkschap
SBB, companies,
union of local boat
owners
SBB
Companies,
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch, SBB
Companies,
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
SBB, Biesbosch
Museum
SBB, Biesbosch
Museum
SBB, Parkschap
Parkschap,
watersport
organisation,
companies
SBB, Biesbosch
Museum
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
STEP-partners
facilities and events
SBB/
RWS, Provinces,
Parkschap
Municipalities
Parkschap
Entrepreneurs,
Inhabitants, SBB
Biesbosch
Parkschap,
Museum
Werkendam, SBB
Parkschap
Municipalities,
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
Medium Parkschap
Municipalities,
Entrepreneurs
High
Parkschap
Biesbosch
museum,
municipalities
3g
3h
Attracting new and innovative and sustainable
2011enterprises
2016
Workshops to encourage local enterprises and
2011active local inhabitants to develop new
2015
tourism activities
Expert meeting on visitor-centres 2.0
3i
3j
3k
3l
3m
Development of 4 walking paths
Development of 3 new cycling paths
Stimulating/facilitating the development of
new accommodations
Research on and development of new landing
stages
Development of 2 new water routes
3n
3o
Development of 1 plan for signposting
3p
Plan development on additional recreational
facilities
3q
Further development of innovative routes
3s
4
4a
4b
4c
4d
4e
4f
Parkschap
Medium
Parkschap
Medium
Parkschap
2011
High
20112012
Medium
2011
High
20112016
Medium
2011
Medium
20112012
Medium
20112014
High
20112015
Medium
Parkschap
Parkschap
Parkschap
Parkschap/
SBB
Parkschap
Parkschap
Entrepreneurs,
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
Entrepreneurs,
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
SBB, external
experts, Nieuwe
Dordtse
Biesbosch,
Biesbosch Museum
Land owners,
Road managers
Land owners,
Road managers
Entrepreneurs,
SBB
Water sport
organisations and
users, Water
Authorities
Water sport
organisations and
users, SBB
Municipalities, SBB
Parkschap/ Provinces
NDB/
Werkendam
Parkschap
SBB, Municipalities
2011Medium
2015
Creating 8 resting places
2011Parkschap
SBB, Municipalities
Medium
2012
Encouraging to conserve and enhance the environment and engage in visitor
management
Joint development of new Biesbosch-events
2011- Medium SBB/
Local cultural
2013
Parkschap
organisations,
Entrepreneurs.
Municipalities
Interest entrepreneurs to become holder of
2011Parkschap
Brabant aan de
Medium
the Green Key
2012
Biesbosch
Updating the zoning plan and elaborating
2011SBB
Parkschap,
High
concrete measures
2012
Municipalities
Implementing the measures derived from the 2011Parkschap
SBB
Medium
research report on Water sports
2016
Start-up of monitoring system regarding
2011SBB
Parkschap,
High
number of visitors, their activities and impact 2016
Municipalities
Development of a set of Green Key-criteria for 2011Parkschap
Green Key
boat rental entrepreneurs
2012
organisation
Medium
36
4g
Establishing a Biesbosch Fund in which
enterprises can invest money for both their
own benefit and the national park
Branding of the Biesbosch region
Implementing, improving and expanding the
web-portal for the Biesbosch
Improving the uniformity in the appearance of
the Biesbosch
Development of a joint merchandising
programme
20112013
5d
Expanding collaboration on branding the
Biesbosch-region
5e
Intensifying and formalising the cooperation
with Biesbosch entrepreneurs
5
5a
5b
5c
37
Parkschap
Rabobank,
Province of
Brabant
Parkschap
SBB, IVN
Medium
Parkschap
SBB
Low
Parkschap
20112016
High
Parkschap
20112016
High
Parkschap
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch,
Entrepreneurs
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch, SBB,
VVV’s
Brabant aan de
Biesbosch
20112013
20112016
20132016
High
High
5.2 MONITORING THE RESULTS
The strategic goals to develop sustainable tourism are described in paragraph 3. Also the actions
undertaken to reach these goals are described in that paragraph.
In this paragraph a description is given of how these actions will be monitored. The numbers
correspond with the actions in the matrix on p. 35-37.
TABLE 3: MONITORING THE RESULTS
Action
1
Effect
Unique Biesbosch experience
Stimulating electric navigating
and non-motorised
navigating. The 0measurement of this is a
1a
report by BWZ about electric
boating. In 2011 there are no
charging stations for electro
boats in the Biesbosch.
1b
Output
Analysis of best practices
foreign National Parks/
Europarcs.
Realisation of at least 3
charging stations for private
electro boats.
Sightings by Parkschap officials
of electro boats charging at the
stations.
Realisation of a new canoe
route and a electro boat route
with GPS.
STEP study report about
sustainable issues in
entrepreneurship, resulting in
at least 5 new sustainable
Biesbosch entrepreneurs in
2016.
Extension of unique Biesbosch
experience.
Development of uniform
Amount of recreational
recreational products and
products with national park
services for strengthening the image (routes, brochures incl.
1c Biesbosch experience.
numbers of printing, new
activities and excursions, incl.
0-measurement: experience participants between 2011 en
survey NHTV 2011.
2016.
Improvement of appreciation
in experiencing the Biesbosch
(new survey in 2016).
Expanding and maintaining
network and improving
quality of official Biesbosch1d hosts. 0-measurement: 35
Biesbosch-hosts in 2011.
Satisfaction of visitors about
quality of facilities and services
50 Biesbosch-hosts in 2016.
Their addresses can be found
on the website. In cooperation
with the hosts quality criteria
are made and a system exists
to check and maintain the
quality of the hosts. These
38
criteria will be put on the
website.
Improving the standard and
uniformity of volunteers
(recruitment, training,
visibility, insurance,
1e
conditions). 0-measurement:
inventarisation of wishes and
needs of volunteer
organisations 2011.
2
In 2016 volunteers are
Satisfaction of volunteers
facilitated according to the
about Parkschap policy on
policy plan. There are common volunteers.
trainings and excursions, there
is the same fee policy for all
volunteer organisations.
Encouraging awareness on Biesbosch qualities
Development of a joint and
uniform information
2a programme of nature
activities.
Yearly programme of nature
activities available at all
Biesbosch-hosts, Biesbosch
gateways and regional tourist
offices.
Development of common
educational programme for
elementary schools. 02b
measurement: number of
school groups visiting the
Biesbosch in 2010.
One educational worker for the 10% increase of school visits
whole Biesbosch, overview of
to the national park in 2016.
school programmes on the
website.
Adaptation of the current
One regulation scheme for the
regulation schemes for water whole Biesbosch area in 2016,
based recreation.
available on the NP website.
0-measurement: In 2011 the
2c north and south part of the
Biesbosch have different
regulations. Number of
reporting of disturbances and
violations.
2d
Development of new
educational activities for
recreational gateways.
Overview of all activities on
national park website.
Strengthening relation with
STEP study report about
2e enterprises, regarding
communication on
communication and education
39
10% more visitors in guided
excursions.
Less disturbances and
violations of the law in 2016
and more support visitors for
the regulations.
Numbers of participants of
educational activities.
Growing awareness of the
Biesbosch as a national park
which tries to be sustainable,
on sustainability.
sustainability in 2013.
25 Green Key businesses in
2016.
and of sustainable
entrepreneurship with
entrepreneurs as well as their
guests.
2f
Research on the
Visible communication about
sustainability issues in
communication of
‘sustainability’.
Biesbosch entrance gates and
0-measurement: STEP report Biesbosch-hosts (with Green
Key).
2011.
3
Improve visitors facilities and services and stimulate new facilities and events
General: 0-measurement:
Report ‘De Toeristischrecreatieve sector in de
Biesbosch regio’, 2011.
50% of the visitors know that
the Biesbosch has a
sustainability policy (new
visitor survey 2016)
Growth of tourism employment
and capacity for overnight stay
in absolute numbers
Influencing plan development
Nieuwe Dordtse Biesbosch
and Noordwaard.
3a
0-measurement: participation
of the Park Board and
Staatsbosbeheer in meetings.
Sustainable forms of tourism in Satisfaction of visitors about
Noordwaard and Nieuwe
facilities in these new areas.
Dordtse Biesbosch in 2016, zon
ing in accordance with national
park policy.
Development of electric
charging point for bicycles
3b and boats.
See 1a.
3c
Sustainable expansion of the
Biesbosch Museum.
Strengthening relations
between National Park and
other parts of the Biesbosch3d region. 0-measurement:
Report ‘De Toeristischrecreatieve sector in the
Biesbosch-region’.
Electric charging points for
bicycles at all Biesbosch hosts
with Green Key
Cycling or navigating around
the Biesbosch on electro bike
or in electric boat without
empty batteries
Green Key for Biesbosch
Museum.
See 2e.
Common projects with
stakeholders aimed at
stimulating tourist sector.
Increase of employment and
overnight stay capacity with
5% in Biesbosch-region.
Development of new ferry
At least 2 new hike/bike ferries Number of passengers using
connections to achieve
in 2016.
ferries.
3e ‘Rondje Biesbosch’.
0-measurement:Manual BWZ
ingenieurs
40
3f
Enhancement of recreational
gateways. 0-measurement:
Decision of Park Board about
entrances, May 30, 2011.
In 2016 there are (at least) 3
main recreational Biesbosch
gateways, recognisable as
such.
Visitors can name at least one
recreational gateway in the
Biesbosch (visitor survey),
even if they have not started
their visit from one of the
gateways.
Attracting new and innovative At least 5 new touristrecreational businesses in
and sustainable enterprises.
0-measurement:
2016.
inventarisation of buildings
3g SBB, STEP-project small scale
overnight stays, bidbook
Zuileshoeve, report ‘De
Toeristisch-recreatieve sector
in de Biesbosch-regio’.
Increase of tourist employment
and new tourist services and
facilities available.
Workshops to encourage local At least 2 workshops with 10
enterprises and active local
participants each before 2016.
3h
inhabitants to develop new
tourism activities.
At least 3 participants have
developed new tourism
activities before 2016.
3i
Expert meeting on visitorcentres 2.0.
Report expert meeting.
3j
Development of 4 walking
paths.
At least 2 electronic hiking
routes available on website.
3k
Development of 3 new cycling At least 2 electronic cycling
paths
routes available on website.
Number of downloads.
Number of visitors staying
overnight.
3l
Stimulating/facilitating the
At least 3 new small scale
development of new
sustainable overnight stay
accommodations.
possibilities in 2016.
0-measurement: Report ‘De
Toeristisch-recreatieve sector
in de Biesbosch-regio’.
3
m
Research and development of 3 new locations for landing
new landing stages.
stages between 2011-2016.
0-measurement: report BWZ.
Sightings of boats mooring.
3n
Development of 2 new water
routes.
2 electronic water routes
available on website.
Number of downloads.
3o
Development of 1 plan for
signposting.
Unity in Biesbosch signposts in Increase of awareness of
Biesbosch region.
Biesbosch as a national park.
41
Number of downloads
Plan development on
3p additional recreational
facilities.
3q
Report as a supplement on
new management plan in
2014.
Contribution to zoning plan.
Further development of
innovative routes.
At least 2 more innovative
routes before 2016.
Number of participants.
Creating 8 resting places.
8 new resting places, in
accordance with zoning plan,
recognisable as Biesbosch
resting places.
Sightings of resting visitors.
3s
4
4a
Encouraging to conserve and enhance the environment and engage in visitor
management
Joint development of new
Biesbosch-events.
Annual Biesbosch event for the At least 2.000 visitors a year.
whole region, organised by
Parkschap and entrepreneurs
together.
Interest entrepreneurs to
become holder of the Green
4b Key. In 2010 no Green Key
businesses in the Biesbosch.
In 2016, 50% of Biesbosch
hosts will have Green Key.
In 2016, 20% of the visitors
recognize Green Key as a
sustainability label (visitor
survey). The Green Key hosts
have an increased profit.
Updating the zoning plan and
elaborating concrete
measures. The number of
4c police recordings of violating
the regulations and the water
sport survey of 2010 will
serve as 0-measurment.
25% reduction of the
recordings concerning visitors
that violate the regulations
within the Biesbosch in 2016.
Larger areas within the
Biesbosch have become
undisturbed, creating right
circumstances for the white
tailed eagle to breed in the
Biesbosch in 2016.
4d
Implementing the measures
derived from the research
report on Water sports.
Start-up of monitoring
system regarding number of
4e visitors, their activities and
impact. First overall
measurements available
2012. Recordings of amount
Boats will have to pay for
Positive feedback from visitors.
overnight stay in the
Biesbosch. The fee will be used
for controlling and
maintenance of recreational
facilities.
Numbers from the sites
measured.
42
Growth of visitors via
recreational gateways 20%,
reduction of visitors in the
more vulnerable central areas
with 20%.
of visitors in recreational
gateways available since
2010.
4f
Development of a set of
Green Key-criteria for boat
rental entrepreneurs.
In 2011 boat rental
companies can not obtain
Green Key because criteria
are not available.
Green Key criteria available in
2012. In 2013 at least 2 boat
rental companies in Biesbosch
have Green Key.
Establishing a Biesbosch Fund Established 2013.
in which enterprises can
4g invest money for both their
own benefit and the national
park.
5
Development to more
sustainable boating in the
Biesbosch.
Development of sustainable
tourism in Biesbosch region.
Branding of the Biesbosch region
Implementing, improving and In 2016 increase to 350.000.
expanding the web-portal for
the Biesbosch. In 2010
312.141 visitors of website.
5a
Report ‘De Toeristischrecreatieve sector in de
Biesbosch regio’ serves as 0measurement.
Larger knowledge of the brand
‘Biesbosch’ which results in
more employment in tourism,
more overnight stays.
Improving the uniformity in
5b the appearance of the
Biesbosch.
See
1c,1d,1e,2b,2c,3f,3o,4a,5a,5c
Larger knowledge of the brand
‘Biesbosch’.
Development of a joint
5c merchandising programme.
At least 5 common
merchandising products in
2016.
Number of participants,
number of printed copies.
Expanding collaboration on
5d branding the Biesboschregion.
See 5b.
Larger knowledge of the brand
‘Biesbosch’.
Intensifying and formalising
the cooperation with
5e Biesbosch entrepreneurs.
In 2016 Brabant aan de
Biesbosch is a network for all
entrepreneurs in the
Biesbosch-area.
Every tourist entrepreneur in
the Biesbosch knows that the
network cooperates closely
with Parkschap Nationaal Park
De Biesbosch.
43
ANNEX 1 BIBLIOGRAPHY
•
BWZ Ingenieurs i.o.v. Natuur- en Recreatieschap De Hollandse Biesbosch, Onderzoek naar
nieuwe fiets-, wandel- en veerverbindingen en overnachtingsmogelijkheden in de
Biesbosch, 2011.
•
Communicatiebureau de Lynx / Buro Hemmen, i.o.v. Overlegorgaan Nationaal Park de
Biesbosch Beheer- en inrichtingsplan, Koersend naar een Verenigde Biesbosch, 2004.
•
EUROPARC Federation, European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas; How
to join the journey: a guide for protected areas, 2010.
•
J.S. Snikkers/STEP i.o.v. Nationaal Park de Biesbosch, Onderzoeksrapport “Biesboschentrees; functies, faciliteiten & duurzaamheid”. Een onderzoek in het kader van project 17
van beleidsnota Ondergedompeld in de Biesbosch en subactie 2.2 van STEP, 2010.
•
Leisuresult, De Biesbosch; Evenwicht tussen natuur en recreatie, 2007.
•
NL RNT, i.o.v. Overlegorgaan Nationaal Park de Biesbosch. Ondergedompeld in de
Biesbosch; Beleidsplan Recreatie en Toerisme voor de Biesbosch Regio, 2008.
•
NRIT Onderzoek, Verslag van het recreatieonderzoek in de Biesbosch, 2009.
•
Oranjewoud, i.o.v. Overlegorgaan Nationaal Park de Biesbosch, Cultuurhistorisch Elementen
in de Biesbosch; Voorstellen voor behoud, 1994.
44
Beroepsvisserij
Bezoekerscentrum Drimmelen
Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht
Biesbosch Museum
Brabant aan de Biesbosch6
Citymarketing Dordrecht
Contact Commissie Waterrecreatie Dordrecht
Dijk van een Delta pilotproject7
Drechtsteden / Hollands Glorie8
Evides (waterbedrijf)
Fed. Watersportverenigingen Biesbosch9
Federatie van Hengelsportverenigingen de
Alm en Biesbosch10
Sportvisserij Zuidwest Nederland11
Gebiedscommissie Wijde Biesbosch12
Gemeente Dordrecht
Gemeente Drimmelen
Gemeente Werkendam
IVN Consulentschap Noord-Brabant
Kamer van Koophandel Rotterdam
Kamers van Koophandel Midden- en WestBrabant
Ondernemersplatform Drimmelen13
Ondernemersvereniging DES Werkendam
Overlegorgaan NP De Biesbosch14
Parkschap NP de Biesbosch15
Projectbureau Noordwaard16
Projectgroep Voorl. en Educatie VBB17
Public
organisation
Entrepeneurs
Education
Cultural
heritage
Recreation &
tourism
Nature
ANNEX 2 STAKEHOLDERS THE BIESBOSCH (IN THE FIELD OF TOURISM)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tourist-recreational cooperation of 6 municipalities Drimmelen, Geertruidenberg, Oosterhout, Werkendam, Woudrichem
and Aalburg (www.brabantaandebiesbosch.nl).
7 Group of 12 recreation entreprises who work with regional picture stories as a tool for (t & r) area and product
development. The Biesbosch is participating via Hollands Glorie.
8 Tourism-programme of Common Regulation Drechtsteden (municipalities of Dordrecht, Alblasserdam, Papendrecht,
Zwijndrecht, Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, Sliedrecht)
9 Consists of 44 water sport unions on both Brabant and Holland side
10 Umbrella organisation of anglers in Land van Heusden en Altena, and bording Oostwaard and Noordwaard consisting of 10
angler sport unions with 8500 members.
11 Umbrella organisation of 260 local unions (134.000 anglers) from the entire Provinces of North-Brabant and Zeeland and
almost the entire Province of Zuid-Holland.
12 Consists of representatives of municipalities of Heusden, Waalwijk, Aalburg, Woudrichem, Werkendam, Geertruidenberg,
Drimmelen, Dongen, Oosterhout and Breda, Water Autrhorities Aa and Meuse, Brabantse Delta en Rivierenland, ZLTO, BMF,
KvK-Midden-Brabant, TOP-Brabant, provincie Noord-Brabant, SBB – ends to exist in 2012.
13 Consists of Entrepreneurs Network Drimmelen, ZLTO Drimmelen, Samen Eén Drimmelen, Zwaluwse
Ondernemersvereniging, Winkeliersvereniging Bruisend Made, Bedrijvenvereniging `t Spijck, De Molenwinkeliers,
Ondernemersvereniging Wagenberg.
14 Consists of Parkschap, SBB, Province of NB, Province of ZH, municipalities, Ministry of Economy, Agriculture and
Innovation, Ministry of Finance, Hoogheemraadschap Alm en Biesbosch, Water Authority De Grote Waard.
15 Common regulations of Provinces of Noord-Brabant and Zuid-Holland, municipality of Dordrecht, Drimmelen, Sliedrecht,
Werkendam.
16 Realisation of Noordwaard project, part of Room for Riviers.
6
45
Public
organisation
Entrepeneurs
Education
Cultural
heritage
Recreation &
tourism
Nature
Provincie Noord-Brabant
Provincie Zuid-Holland
RECRON
Regionale VVV Zuid-Holland Zuid
Rijkswaterstaat
Regio West-Brabant18
Staatsbosbeheer Regio Zuid
Toeristisch Bureau Altena Biesbosch19
Toeristisch Platform Geertruidenberg (TPG)
Toeristische Kano Bond Nederland
TOP Brabant20
Verenigde Ondernemers Geertruidenberg
Vereniging Behoud Biesbosch
Vereniging Madese Natuurvrienden
Vereniging Vrijwilligers Hollandse Biesbosch
Vrijetijdshuis Brabants
ZLTO
Rabobank
Individual entrepeneurs
Berging, reparatie, verhuur en
scheepvaart "Vissershang"
Biesbosch.net
Biesboschfluistertours B.V
Botenverhuur Drima
De Kurenpolder Recreatie
Rederij Biesbosch Tours
Restaurant De Brabantse Biesbosch
Rondvaartbedrijf "De Zilvermeeuw"
Rondvaartbedrijf De Endenkooi
Rondvaartbedrijf De Zilvermeeuw
Rondvaartbedrijf Durme-Stad
Geertruidenberg
Stayokay
And many more…
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Part of Vereniging Behoud Biesbosch, voluntary guides included
In the region of West-Brabant 18 municipalities cooperate in the field of tourism and recreation
19 Members are tourist entrepreneurs (Union), cooperating with municipalities and D-cities bv
20 Toeristisch Ondernemers Platform Brabant consists of: RECRON, HISWA, Koninklijk Horeca Nederland (KHN), Zuidelijke
Land- en Tuinbouw Organisatie (ZLTO), Brabantse Kamers van Koophandel (KvK's), Brabants-Zeeuwse
Werkgeversvereniging (BZW) and Vereniging van Kampeerboeren N.Br. (VeKaBo).
17
18
46