Results and discussions

3.1 SWOT analysis of the existing natural and cultural values of Amasra

In order to reveal the current status of the area a SWOT analysis was conducted. The results of the SWOT analysis are as follows (Table 1).

Strengths

• Historical and archaeological sites/ heritage sites

• Hills (panoramic views)

• Natural protected areas

• Natural beaches

• Biodiversity

• Climate advantages

• Visual advantages

(opposite shore due to the peninsula)

• Gastronomic activities

• Fisheries

• Coastal features

(steep cliffs, caves, interesting coastal formation)

• Traditional handicrafts

• Folklore

• Ports/Harbours (big and small ports)

• Tourism activities dating back

• 3000-year past

• Ancient port town

• Established guesthouses

Weaknesses

• Topographic obstacles

• Traffic and parking problems

• Use pressure on carrying capacity in the summer

• Lack of promotion

• Misuse of protected areas

• Factors that cause changes in the shore line (fill

practice, etc.)

• Degradation in the historic urban pattern

• Aesthetic problems in urban and natural

environment (visual pollution, etc.)

• Lack of infrastructure

• Activities of Turkish Hard Coal Authority

• Earthquake and erosion risk

• Lack of inventory on natural and cultural assets

• Lack of tourism education

• Insufficient accommodation standards

• Financial limitations faced by local administrations

• Lack of expertise in local administrations about

planning, design and management of natural and cultural areas

• Lack of approaches to protection in local

administrations

• Lack of interest by NGOs and local residents

• Irregular urban development

Opportunities

• Proximity to major cities (Ankara and

Istanbul)

• Local residents’ openness to innovation

• Sea tourism

• Fisheries open to development

• Proximity to Kastamonu-Bartin Kure

Mountains National Park, one of the most important natural protection area of Europe for its natural, cultural and historical values

• Proximity to the Bartin River, the

only waterway available for transport in Turkey

• Proximity to the museum city of

Safranbolu, which is in the World Heritage List

Threats

• Seawater pollution

• Anthropogenic pressures on forests

• Degradation of archaeological areas

• Coastal fill areas

• Overcrowding especially in summer months

(exceeding carrying capacity)

• Increase in building density and height

• Urban development in agricultural areas

(pressures on agricultural areas)

• Cultural degradation

• Changes in laws and legislations

• Employment opportunities in

tourism for local residents

• Active Tourism Vocational School

• Accessibility through land, sea and

air travel

• Being on the current tour routes___

Table 1. SWOT analysis of Amasra.

Updated: October 8, 2015 — 7:50 pm