Abstract

The paper considers the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) in locally led sustainable tourism development in the Glen of Aherlow, County Tipperary in the Republic of Ireland. The area has a small, but valuable, rural tourism sector relying mainly on the natural beauty of the landscape. It is hoped by local residents that tourism can be developed to improve the local economy without harming the environment. While the paper focuses on the Glen of Aherlow, the circumstances are similar to many parts of rural Ireland outside the major tourist destinations. The results of the GIS-based applications are discussed in detail and their accuracy and repeatability for other grassroots sustainable projects are evaluated. Findings of this research included sustainable maxima for the total number of visitors and a zoned map of the Glen. As well as indicating possible areas for redevelopment, this map also delineated potential protection zones. Other issues discussed include the application of GIS techniques for information sharing across agencies and within the local community.