Why municipalities plan for outdoor recreation: a case study from the Swedish west coast

Spatial planning plays a crucial role in preserving both ecological values and areas for outdoor recreation. Historically, outdoor recreation has been central to Swedish public health planning, but research shows that its integration into spatial planning has weakened, particularly in Sweden's decentralized system. Instead, outdoor recreation is often framed as an economic asset, providing attractiveness and supporting development rather than public health. As Swedish municipalities hold a planning monopoly, they play a key role in preserving recreational areas. This study examines how 11 municipalities on the Swedish west coast—a region facing great development, conservation, and recreation pressures—integrate outdoor recreation into their plans. A qualitative analysis of comprehensive plans, combined with a case study of a nature reserve planning process in Marstrand, reveals that the primary motivation for outdoor recreation is economic growth. Coastal municipalities aim to attract both tourists and year-round residents, whereas urban and commuting areas focus on providing attractive living environments to preserve the residential population under regional/national competition. A key conclusion is that without formal incentives, the incorporation of outdoor recreation in spatial planning is primarily motivated by an economic rationale rather than as a public health strategy. This suggests that in decentralized systems where health planning is not mandated, outdoor recreation remains secondary to economic priorities.