The Role of LGAPs (Local Geodiversity Action Plans) and Welsh RIGS as Local Drivers for Geoconservation within Geotourism in Wales

Abstract

Local Geodiversity Action Plans (LGAPs) and Regionally Important Geodiversity Sites or Regionally Important Geological/geomorphological Sites (RIGS definition depends whether the acronym is used in Wales or elsewhere in the UK) can act as local drivers for geoconservation. An analysis of seven LGAPs across the UK shows that geotourism is either explicitly mentioned or implied within the set Objectives. The overarching aim is normally seeking to maintain and enhance the geodiversity features in a defined local area. LGAPs are therefore fundamental to local geoconservation. RIGS are another government geoconservation initiative aimed at the local level. Two of the criteria for RIGS (education and aesthetical appeal) can be included within the geotourism definition used in this paper. These criteria can be widely interpreted as to encourage education at all levels and this can by implication be tourists. Often, it is the very aesthetic nature of a site which tourists, especially geotourists, find appealing for example, the Giant’s Causeway. This is taken further by looking at a particular area and testing the local achievement of geoconservation within geotourism. In Wales, the success of bilingual geodiversity town trail leaflets to forward this objective in North Wales is assessed. The trails are assessed by the public (by popularity) and proven to achieve the aim. The intricate entwining of local geoconservation and geotourism is established.