Greenways as a tourism resource: a study of user spending and value

ABSTRACTCycling is increasingly recognized as a key tool in improving transport sustainability, promoting increased physical activity and improved public health and developing the tourism sector. While the provision of safe and attractive cycling routes is an important part of encouraging uptake of cycling, national and local government budgetary constraints demand that infrastructural investment must demonstrate return on investment. Greenways, fast becoming a feature of the landscape as traffic-free routes for walking and cycling, with an emphasis on recreation and tourism, are receiving significant investment. However, there is a lack of information on the economic impact of greenway investments internationally. This study of international greenway users (n = 1,125) finds that the average spend per greenway user per day is €47, with accommodation and food & drink accounting for the largest proportions. Based on the estimation of a Travel Cost Model, the value of greenway recreation to cyclists is exami...