A Study on Strategic Planning of Fishery Port Transformation for Tourism and Recreational Development

With the active support by the responsible agency, the transformation of fishing ports for tourism and recreation purposes has been a trend in Taiwan. The successful stories at Danshuei, Fuji, Wanggong, Dongshih, Anping, Singda and Houbihu serve as the cases. However, some of the fishing ports, Yeliou and Haikou for example, are not successful. Based on the findings of this research, it could be a ¡§myth¡¨ to develop fishing ports to play all expected diverse functions. Additionly, the government would waste a lot of money and resources if the project failed. Hence, how to properly plan a successful transformation of fishing ports has become an important issue in Taiwan.In order to meet the needs of most people,the transformation of fishing ports should take the preservation of ecology and environment as well as the waterfront landscape seriously. The planners and/or the responsible agencies are encouraged to: (1) properly define the usages and the functions of the fish port; (2) clarify the responsibilities of all related agencies; (3) encourage the involvement of communities, non-profit organizations and enterprises; (4)integrate the recreational system and the image of environment; (5) efficiently redevelop the space that hasn¡¦t been utilized; (6) strengthen the laws and regulations as well as the relevant mechanisms; (7) minimize the potential conflicts in the public spaces and the coastal waters; (8) establish the available information system on tourism and recreation; (9) enhance the education programs on the preservation of ecology and the marine environment. Those mentioned above are the key elements to support the operation of the integrated system of fishing communities, ports and the coastal environment. They can also effectively solve the problems of society, economy, ecology and environment that may come up with the transformation of fishing ports.This research advocates the approach of ¡§bottom-up planning¡¨. It highlights the importance of the available information, the public awareness, the involvement of all stakeholders, and the integrated consideration of all aspects. In short, the successful transformation of fishing ports needs a holistic view instead of a single-purpose approach.Keyword¡GFishing port, waterfront, tourism and recreation, integration.