The new “Special Spatial Framework for Tourism,” currently open for public consultation, aims to address the gap in spatial planning left by the annulment of the 2009 and 2013 tourism frameworks by the Council of State. The framework aspires to create a more equitable distribution of tourism benefits across various regions and integrate tourism with other economic sectors.
A central focus of the framework is on revitalizing abandoned buildings and villages, linking tourism with agriculture, cultural heritage, and historical sites. By integrating these aspects into tourism planning, the framework highlights the potential of agritourism as a significant driver of economic activity in rural areas. The framework also addresses the increasing trend of urban tourism, with a specific emphasis on “city breaks” that position cities as standalone tourism destinations. In addition to supporting agritourism and urban tourism, the framework advocates a cross-sectoral approach to tourism development.By advocating a cross-sectoral approach, the framework envisions a tourism industry that benefits from synergies with agriculture, culture, and heritage, enriching the visitor experience and promoting resilience. Also, it emphasizes the need for collaborative engagement among stakeholders, including local communities, policymakers, and tourism operators, to create a more inclusive tourism model.
