Project on density and tourist flows in the Sevillian Santa Cruz Quarter
About this good practice
We have established a methodology that allows us to understand the magnitude of the challenge we face and to manage it with as much information as possible and in an effective manner. Thanks to the development of new technologies and the possibility of working on empirical data, solutions can be prototyped more effectively on a model of sustainability that allows for proper management of tourist flows and density. The Barrio de Santa Cruz has been delimited in those points that have been considered most relevant from the point of view of congestion and traffic of people (residents and visitors). There is a total of 10 points where two types of sensors (WIFI and Optical Sensors) have been installed, which will allow us to have real-time data on the capacity, affluence, and flow of visitors in the area. The installation of the two technologies together will allow us to have more knowledge about how these technologies are able to provide quality data and we can extrapolate this knowledge to other areas of the city.
Resources needed
For the development of the project, 30,000 euros have been necessary for the acquisition of the sensors. The Seville's Smart Destination project is funded by the Spanish Ministry of Industry and Tourism through R&D grants, aimed at addressing tourism challenges during 2022–2024.
Evidence of success
The Project has met its objectives. Regarding the analysis of spatial-temporal behavior and tourist flows in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, several reports have been produced containing scientifically valuable insights for decision-making. Seville residents' perceptions of tourism impacts have been studied, identifying mobility and overcrowding as the most pressing issues in the view of citizens. This has helped implementing a visitor capacity system with thresholds to limit visitor numbers.
Potential for learning or transfer
This method can be implemented in any destination that is experiencing density and overtourism. The use of technologies, particularly the placement of sensors, can monitor the consumption behaviour of visitors to historic sites and identify the redistribution of tourist flows. This data will serve to generate more competitive intelligence in the ecosystems of other destinations, driving continuous innovation, and interconnecting and addressing the needs of all stakeholders in the tourism value chain. As a result, this best practice will improve residents quality of life and positive visitor experience, promote of other tourist centres in the city and continuously improve economic, social and environmental sustainability policies.
Further information
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Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Agencia de Obra Pública de la Junta de Andalucía
