Background:
Mukhrani village is located in Georgia, 40 km from the Capital - Tbilisi. The Foundation for Regional Economic Development of Mukhrani is a non-profit, philanthropic foundation set up with primary objective to contribute to the local community in and around Mukhrani. The Foundation’s belief is that unlocking the touristic potential of Mukhrani and its vicinity will significantly and sustainably benefit the social and economic conditions of the inhabitants of the Mukhrani areas. In July 2016, FREDM appointed TDI to prepare a Tourism Development Plan for Mukhrani Village.
Project Objectives:
The project goals include the creation of a plan aimed at the expansion of tourism in Mukhrani village. The focus of the plan is on the conservation and interpretation of existing monuments and historic buildings; the development of Mukhrani’s ‘intangible’ heritage and culture; the development of tourist infrastructure like hotels, retail, food and beverage; and infrastructure (roads, electricity, water and sewage network etc.).
Project Activities:
- Assessment of existing product offer (Heritage and cultural assets, natural resource, infrastructure)
- Market research to identify market potential and new product development opportunities
- Consultations with public, private and community stakeholders
- Best practice
- SWOT analysis
- Tourism product development recommendations
- Examination of linkages and ‘product clustering’ potential
- Market positioning and marketing planning
- Economic Development and Funding Plans
- Organisation and Management Plan
- Identification of Tourism Development Funding Sources
- Implementation Framework and Action Plan
Project Outcome and Impacts:
The plan incorporated proposals for the development of cultural and heritage tourism around three clusters – Mukhrani Fortress Neighbourhood, Dzalisi Roman Archaeological Ruins and Chateau Mukhrani. Implementation of recommendations are now underway including spatial planning and capacity building measures.
Links:
Chateau Mukhrani