Uvernet-Fours: Return of tourism management, a review below our expectations

IN BRIEF

  • Uvernet-Fours takes over the management of the tourism competency.
  • Creation of a tourism office on September 4, 2023.
  • Proposal for a revision of the compensation allocation not adopted.
  • Criticism from the mayor Patrick Bouvet regarding the amount voted to the community of municipalities.
  • Quality promotion target for the Pra Loup resort.
  • Discrepancy between the estimated budget and actual expenses on the competency.

The municipality of Uvernet-Fours has just reintegrated the management of tourism, marking a return to autonomy after several years of shared management. However, this return comes with challenges, as the critical assessment highlights unmet expectations in terms of tourism development and funding.

A strategic decision driven by local concerns

On September 4, 2023, the municipality adopted a new direction regarding tourism, creating a structured tourism office aimed at showcasing the potential of the Pra Loup resort. This initiative responds to a desire for greater autonomy and more targeted promotion of local attractions, but it also raises questions about the viability of the strategic choices made.

A complex management marked by misunderstandings

The mayor of Uvernet-Fours, Patrick Bouvet, expressed his disagreement with decisions coming from the community of municipalities, deeming the funds allocated to his municipality as inequitable. While the proposed compensation amounted to €466,925, the municipality spends nearly €650,000 annually on the management of its tourism competency. This gap raises the issue of the financial sustainability of the tourism policy chosen by Uvernet-Fours.

An ambition commensurate with the stakes

The revitalization of tourism management is accompanied by commendable ambitions, but the financial and human resources are limited. With the goal of a harmonious and sustainable development of the resort, Uvernet-Fours finds itself in a dynamic where the promotion strategy must adapt to the economic and tourism realities of the territory.

Expectations exacerbated by disappointing results

The current assessment leaves a bitter taste, as expectations regarding tourist flows and attractiveness remain below initial projections. The municipality, after returning to direct management, hoped for a significant improvement in its image and visitor numbers, while the figures have proven to be concerning.

Reflections and future perspectives

To reverse this trend, the municipality must engage in a thorough reflection on its promotion methods and territorial marketing strategies. The future of Uvernet-Fours relies on its ability to innovate and meet the expectations of an increasingly demanding public, while participating in a collaborative dynamic with local and regional stakeholders.