Tourism Impact on Oban: Study Notes

• Study notes on tourism's impacts on Oban

Methodology: Traffic Count

• A traffic count recorded the number of vehicles at Argyll Square and Soroba Road for ten minutes at each location.
• This method was chosen for its simplicity and effectiveness in data organization.
• Primary data is more reliable than potentially outdated website information.
• Traffic count results can be easily compared across different areas.
• Traffic levels fluctuate depending on the day and time.
• Weekday afternoons typically have higher traffic due to school dismissals and commutes.
• Weekend traffic levels are generally lower than weekdays.

Methodology: Environmental Quality Survey

• An environmental quality survey was conducted at the same locations as the traffic count.
• A bi-polar table rated environmental quality from 1 (very poor) to 5 (very good) across five factors.
• The factors assessed were air quality, noise pollution, litter, water quality, and vegetation.
• This method avoids reliance on outdated or inaccurate representations.
• Data collection is efficient and straightforward.
• Subjectivity in ratings can introduce bias.
• Collecting data from multiple individuals and averaging results helps mitigate bias.

Results: Traffic Count Analysis

• Cars were the most frequently observed vehicle type.
• 42 cars were counted on Soroba Road, and 69 were counted on Argyll Square.
• Rental car convenience contributes to the prevalence of cars for tourists.
• Tourists can easily access rental cars, and do not have to use train or bus schedules
• Oban is a gateway to the islands, increasing car traffic, especially to the ferry terminal through Argyll Square.
• Increased noise and air pollution from cars negatively impact residents' quality of life.
• Limited bike tracks force cyclists to navigate congested areas, raising safety concerns.

Results: Litter Count Analysis

• Cigarette butts were the most abundant litter type.
• 18 cigarette butts were found on Soroba Road, and 15 were found on Argyll Square.
• The high smoking rate and limited availability of cigarette bins contribute to cigarette butt litter.
• Cigarette bins often overflow, especially during peak tourist season when Oban's population triples.
• Cigarette litter is concentrated near pubs and restaurants due to outdoor smoking.
• Glass litter was the least common type.
• Absence of glass is probably due to people less likely to carry glass items outdoors

Results: Bi-Polar Analysis

• Argyll Square had a higher attractiveness score, averaging 4/5.
• Argyll Square's cleanliness is emphasized as the town center and a tourist destination.
• Maintaining a presentable appearance attracts repeat business.
• Soroba Road had a lower attractiveness score, between 2 and 3/5.
• Soroba Road has less tourist attractions.
• Lower tourist presence leads to less emphasis on aesthetics.
• High traffic and pedestrian foot traffic contribute to wear and tear on Soroba Road.
• Potholes and damaged pavements are prevalent on Soroba Road.
• Overflowing bins due to high pedestrian volumes worsen litter accumulation.

Results: Questionnaire Analysis

• Parking difficulties were identified as the most significant tourism challenge, with 67% considering it very important.
• Oban's limited parking is quickly occupied due to high tourist influx.
• Noise pollution was the least concerning problem, with 30% rating it as not important.
• Oban's compact size results in relatively low noise levels.
• Few residents live directly adjacent to the main road, mitigating noise pollution impact.

Summary of Tourism's Impacts on Oban

• Tourism increases income for the local economy and supports small businesses.
• Increased income is offset by negative consequence of increase tourism.
• Litter accumulation is a significant challenge, worsened by overflowing bins.
• Oban’s coastal location exposes it to strong winds that disperse litter, diminishing its aesthetic appeal and potentially harming wildlife.
• Traffic congestion and traffic jams are recurring problems, inconveniencing residents.
• Tourism remains a valuable asset to Oban, shaping the community's development and economy.