Aspiring academic | Research in Place-based Strategic Planning for Sustainable Tourism | Project Management | No longer a student 🎓
Had a wonderful work shift today at the opening event of Aberdeen South Harbour by Port of Aberdeen, which inspired this long post on a Sunday evening. The event hosted around 10,000 folk from Aberdeen and beyond, all keen to see what many thought was something they read in the papers, something far and has nothing to do with them. By opening their doors to the public, the Port allowed folk to feel part of it. I eventually lost count how many people told me today “I had no idea this was on our doorstep”, or “I never thought this had anything to do with me”, or “oh, actually so great to see something that is going to contribute to the local economy”, and “so great to see something like this happening in Aberdeen”. Despite some logistical ‘teething problems’ at the beginning, it was a fantastically successful event. After writing up the ‘industrialisation vs sense of place” section in my thesis earlier this week, what I witnessed today resonated incredibly well. Engaging with the community is seen as a driver for the sense of belonging, ownership and sense of place, thus supporting more positive attitudes towards development. Then, the benefits will be perceived as higher, thus increasing the value of the development in the eyes of the community. This in turn will contribute to a more constructive and meaningful engagement with locals, and co-creation of solutions to any negative impacts, leading to a more sustainable development ✅ Also, was great to see Robert Gordon University stall there, and many other local organisations. The pizza van guy said they had sold out, as well as other food trucks. Another positive outcome. #aberdeen #localcommunity #senseofplace #phd
Principal Lecturer; Subject Leader Hospitality, Tourism and Events
11moHi Alona, great to see you there and I agree with everything you say here. I actually think if links with the “Our Union Street” project which has been actively seeking (and sharing) suggestions from Aberdeen residents. Like the Port public day, it is crucial to get local community involved so that a sense of place is built and encouraged