North East Adventure Tourism – Project Launch

NEAT will harness north east Scotland's vast array of natural assets, transforming a rapidly growing sector into a market-facing industry.

The project aims to deliver sustainable growth and jobs for rural communities and Aberdeen city. It will offer an innovative and accessible range of adventure tourism facilities and events, drawing high-spending visitors to the region while providing inspiring amenities for residents and visitors. It will increase access to the outdoors and encourage inclusive participation in active lifestyles to improve health and wellbeing.

Within ten years, projects included in NEAT could increase annual adventure tourism visitor spending in the region by more than 20% and create 500 jobs.

Through NEAT, the region will become an adventure sports destination with:

• an ever-improving trail infrastructure and a nationally recognised off-road challenge making it a destination of choice for adventurous walkers and cyclists;
• a nationally significant mountain bike offer, which attracts visitors from all over the UK;
• adventure destinations that have distinct qualities that appeal to family groups and drive holiday choice;
• an events programme that offers unique experiences, raising awareness of the region and attracting significant numbers during shoulder seasons;
• the sector enjoying a higher profile through joined-up marketing for its broader product offer, which in turn supports a growing small business segment; and
• a growing reputation for innovation, with the area seen as the right place to invest in developing adventure businesses.

A five-year programme of projects with the best prospects and capacity to grow the sector will create a foundation for longer-term development.

Opportunity North East (ONE) is currently leading the development of the business case for NEAT with Scottish Enterprise, VisitAberdeenshire, Aberdeenshire Council and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, in consultation with industry and Aberdeen City Council.