THE IMPACT OF TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AROUND CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES ON LOCAL LABOUR MARKETS AND HOUSEHOLD INCOME

The development of tourism infrastructure around cultural heritage sites is an important factor in strengthening local labour markets, diversifying economic activities, and increasing household income. However, the economic benefits of infrastructure investment depend not only on the volume of investment or the number of visitors but also on the accessibility of heritage sites, the quality of tourism services, the participation of local communities, and the distribution of tourism revenue. This article examines the relationship between tourism infrastructure development and local socio-economic outcomes from an international perspective. It draws on international policy documents, sustainable tourism guidelines, and comparative evidence concerning tourism development. The analysis focuses on transport connectivity, accommodation, visitor facilities, digital infrastructure, local entrepreneurship, and workforce development. It argues that infrastructure can generate direct employment in hospitality, transport, catering, guiding, and heritage management, while also stimulating indirect employment through local supply chains. Nevertheless, weak local business participation, seasonal demand, skills shortages, and the outflow of profits can limit the benefits received by residents. The article concludes that an integrated approach combining infrastructure investment, heritage conservation, local enterprise support, and employment monitoring is essential for ensuring that tourism development produces inclusive and sustainable economic benefits.