New River Tweed trail takes step towards becoming 'one of the great long-distance routes in the UK'
Last updated 28th Oct 2024
It's claimed new figures show the South of Scotland is on track to generate one billion pounds of economic growth annually by 2034.
The STEAM stats - which monitor tourism activity - show the region grew its visitor economy by 20 per cent last year, by £150 million to £911 million; created 14 per cent more jobs, with 15,652 people now employed in the industry; and increased visitor numbers by more than a quarter, to over five million.
It comes as the Scottish Government today (Monday) confirmed £10 million of funding for a new trail along the length of the River Tweed, as part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes also unveiled the distinctive branding for the route, which will help guide visitors, during a visit to the Scottish Borders.
The MSP said: “Tourism is vitally important to the South of Scotland economy, supporting hundreds of businesses and thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
“With so many attractions, beauty spots and wonderful landscapes attracting both day trippers and overnight to the region, the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy is rightfully ambitious.
“This data is an encouraging indication that this ambition can be realised, and we will continue to work with the SSDA, SOSE and partners and businesses across the region to continue showcasing the region as a destination and driving economic and social benefits that come from a thriving tourism sector.”
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Scottish Borders Council is leading the River Tweed trail development in partnership with the Tweed Forum.
The funding will support delivery of a 113-mile long walking and braided cycling route along the full length of the river from Moffat to Berwick.
Due to be completed in 2028, it is estimated the project will bring an extra 267,000 visitors to the area after 10 years, with associated spending of £27.9 million and supporting 400 jobs.
David Hope-Jones OBE, South of Scotland Destination Alliance CEO, said: “It’s fantastic to see what, together, the South of Scotland can achieve when we all push in the same direction. We have one, clear plan as to how we will support responsible tourism to drive local community and economic benefit. We are investing in that plan and we are now seeing the demonstrable results of this.
“Each £1 that has gone into the SSDA in the last year has resulted in £275 of increased local economic benefit.We are hugely grateful to the Scottish Government and SOSE for their belief and investment in South of Scotland tourism."
Work has already started on developing the River Tweed trail, which involves 166 separate packages, including the creation of paths, major upgrades to existing paths, bridge replacements and repairs.
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Councillor Euan Jardine, leader of Scottish Borders Council and Borderlands Partnership co-chair, said: "The Destination Tweed programme aims to capitalise on, protect and enhance this incredible asset that we have running through the region and help create a unique attraction which will share the nature, history and stories of the river and surrounding area with visitors from across the world.
"The River Tweed trail is the keystone project within the £25 million Destination Tweed programme and will allow people to travel on foot or by bike from the source to the sea, connecting communities and attractions along the route.
"It will be one of the great long-distance routes in the UK. Along with the complementary cultural, river and landscape enhancement projects in the wider programme, it will enhance biodiversity, increase resilience to climate change impacts and increase footfall and visitor spend in communities along the route and surrounding area."
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