Abstract
Substantive literature identifies the need for sustainable tourism, and for policy to address this need. However, few studies address sustainable tourism at a practical level or in relation to policy implementation. In response, this research focuses on the operational level of policy to better understand opportunities and barriers to sustainable tourism policy development and implementation. Through content analysis of policy documents, as well as qualitative interviews with Local Authority personnel, we examine the level of planning for sustainable tourism by a sample of Local Authorities in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, critically analysing gaps between policy planning and implementation. Findings indicate that although the concept of sustainable tourism is perceived as important, its principles are not consistently or effectively embedded in tourism planning. Issues of policy relevance, scope, and clarity, as well as the diversity of policy actors involved, directly limit the ability to put such plans into practice.