Highland Council to explore visitor levy consultation

Highland Council is set to initiate a consultation regarding the implementation of a visitor levy in the region, following the approval of a plan by MSPs in May to introduce such a tax across Scotland. This levy would apply to overnight accommodations, including hotels and B&Bs, allowing local councils to charge visitors. The funds generated from this tax are intended to enhance local infrastructure, such as roads and public facilities, which are heavily utilized by tourists. The Highlands attract over six million visitors annually, a number that peaked at seven million in 2019 before the Covid pandemic impacted tourism. As the sector shows signs of recovery, the council aims to gather input from residents, businesses, and visitors through a three-month consultation scheduled to begin later this year. In a previous consultation in 2019, Highland Council received 6,600 responses, indicating strong community interest in tourism-related issues. Ken Gowans, chairman of the economy and infrastructure committee, emphasized the importance of tourism to the region's economy. He stated that the upcoming consultation will provide a platform for stakeholders to express their opinions on how the levy should be structured and how the revenue should be allocated. The council recognizes that this consultation is just one part of a broader engagement process with the community. The proposed levy will be calculated as a percentage of the cost of overnight stays, with accommodation providers responsible for its collection. Certain exemptions will apply, including for individuals receiving disability benefits. The council anticipates that the levy could generate up to £10 million annually, which would be reinvested into improving essential services for both visitors and residents.