Outscape seeks local community input to measure the benefits of key trails
13th February 2024Outscape, a leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to making it easier for people to responsibility engage with the outdoors, has launched of a series of trail impact surveys across Northern Ireland, with specific focus on Drumkeeragh Forest, Seaforde Wood, Tobar Mhuire, and Gosford Forest Park.
Utilising the innovative Social Return on Investment (SROI) methodology, Outscape is keen to gauge the benefits of these trails from the perspective of their most important stakeholders – the local trail users. This standardised framework for measuring non-financial benefits (such as physical health, mental health and well-being, environmental and learning) provides the ability to identify and communicate the impact of a trail in simple monetary terms. This will allow Outscape to ascertain the return on investment for every £1 spent. For similar trails the return has been as high as £16 for every £1 spent over the lifespan of the trail. Outscape encourages everyone who has enjoyed these trails to take 5 minutes to complete the surveys. Whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, nature enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys a leisurely walk, your feedback is invaluable. Residents and visitors who have experienced any of these trails are requested to visit the links for the relevant trail.
Chris Scott, Operations Director of Outscape, commented on the initiative, saying, “The feedback from the local communities regarding each of the trails has been very positive. Our goal with these surveys is to gather concrete data that showcases just how integral these trails are to local and community well-being.”
The insights gathered from these surveys will play a critical role in demonstrating the value of trails and in turn make persuasive arguments to protect and grow the resource base for outdoor recreation.
Click here to fill out the Drumkeeragh Forest survey
Click here to fill out the Seaforde Wood survey
Click here to fill out the Tobar Mhuire survey
Click here to fill out the Gosford Forest Park survey
For further information, please contact: Harry Reid at harry@out-scape.com