Edinburgh must expand its booming tourism business out of the Old and New Towns to avoid a public 'backlash' against the industry, a new report has said.
Experts already believe the capital should become a gateway for the rest of Scotland rather than trap visitors in a small overcrowded area - Princes Street, the High Street and North Bridge
Now Edinburgh Tourism Action Group, the main lobby for tourist business, called for “collective intervention” to protect historic areas and the way of life of residents, The Scotsman reported.
READ MORE: Neil Mackay: How we can make tourism work in Scotland
The group also called for the growth of the city's festivals and the short-term letting business to be carefully managed.
Its report comes after real concerns were expressed that mass tourism - especially diuring the summer festivals - was affecting the quality of life in Edinburgh. Visitor numbers are up a third since 2010.
READ MORE: Edinburgh and Skye 'are Scotland's Barcelona and Venice and should tax tourists'
The report says: "“There are concerns public space does not meet demand in certain locations, during peak times and major events. The number of day visitors (particularly cruise visitors) has grown rapidly recently, however such visitors often put pressure on city centre infrastructure and attractions during peak times. ‘Growing pains’ associated with the development and growth of the city may lead to growing concern among residents who could oppose tourism related developments in future.
“The city’s history, heritage and built environment are its biggest attraction. It’s important to preserve these and the feeling of authenticity through collective intervention.”
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