Stakeholder Collaboration in Tourism Development: The Case of Veerse Meer, the Netherlands

In this article current stakeholder collaboration in tourism development was investigated in the area Veerse Meer, a lake area situated in the southwest of the Netherlands. Since four local public organizations are involved in its development as well as multiple private stakeholders, it presents an interesting case to analyze options for collaboration. Through interviews and a discussion group with stakeholder representatives the research indicates that, despite an awareness of the importance of collaboration in tourism planning, collaboration is not seen as an effective strategy for the tourism development process in Veerse Meer. Different viewpoints, as well as the missing “sense of urgency,” are seen as major constraints for collaboration.