UKHospitality Scotland is calling on local authorities across the country to pause plans for introducing a visitor levy, following Argyll and Bute Council’s decision to shelve its own proposal.
The trade body says the move by Argyll and Bute should prompt other councils to reassess whether a levy is right for their local economies, particularly in the face of legislative ambiguity and an unclear impact on tourism and business.
Councils in Stirling, Dumfries and Galloway, and Perth and Kinross are among those currently consulting on introducing a charge.
Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said, “The impact of a visitor levy on visitors and businesses is still unknown, so Argyll and Bute Council is right to rule out implementation of a visitor levy.
“Argyll and Bute’s consultation showed a majority of respondents did not support the levy and this is a clear example of a council listening and acting on concerns from local residents, businesses and trade associations like UKHospitality Scotland.
“There remain many questions about the visitor levy – from its economic impact to how it will be legislated in the future. There is now uncertainty about whether, or when, visitor levy legislation will be changed to allow the use of a flat rate fee.
“I hope other councils will follow the pragmatic approach of Argyll and Bute by pausing their plans and taking stock of the economic realities of accommodation businesses.”
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