Highland tourist tax consultation brings in 4000 responses, council reveals
About 4000 “very mixed” responses were received during the public consultation on the possible introduction of a visitor levy for the Highlands.
Highland Council says a visitor levy of five per cent could raise about £10 million a year which could be spent on public infrastructure which is under pressure due to a huge number of tourists.
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Following the conclusion of its public consultation, council convener Bill Lobban said the feedback was much appreciated.
“People feel deeply and this is reflected in the high number of on-line form submissions we have received,” he said.
"The visitor economy is a key industry for the Highlands but to keep the area as a top visitor attraction we need to consider the reality that many services used by visitors and shared with residents are not a statutory duty of the council to deliver and are under threat from shrinking public budgets.
“If a visitor levy was introduced, investment from it could benefit local communities and visitors, as many services used by visitors are shared with residents.
He added: “I know there are very mixed views on the introduction of the visitor levy.
“Any decisions need to be informed which is why we wanted as many people as possible to have the chance to pass on their views and suggestions as part of our consultation.”
The council will take time to fully consider all responses.
There is no fixed timetable at this stage for the findings to be presented to members or considered at committee.
Cllr Lobban added: “The council will be working with accommodation providers through the Visitor Levy Reference Group to review the proposal and to try and address concerns in the most positive way possible.”
The documents can still be viewed at visitor levy consultation.
