Scotland’s first national survey of marine recreation and tourism around the Scottish coast was published this week.

LUC conducted this major research project on behalf of the Scottish Government, using a web-based survey to collect data on the recreational activities people value around the Scottish coast.

We collected information on 23 different recreational activities, from playing on the beach to sailing, and SCUBA diving to climbing. People told us about over 52,000 places they had visited over the previous 12 months. LUC then used the information to create a series of remarkable maps showing which areas of coast and sea are most important.

The results provide new insights into people’s trips to the coast, including the suggestion that that annual expenditure on marine recreation and tourism contributes up to £3.7bn to the Scottish economy. The Scottish Government will use our analysis to inform marine planning as well as guiding public and private investment over the coming years.

Rhona Fairgrieve, Scottish Coastal Forum Manager said: ‘This innovative project