ASSC’s CEO, Fiona Campbell and Director, Iain Muirhead Meet with the Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes

ASSC’s CEO, Fiona Campbell and Director, Iain Muirhead, had an extremely constructive meeting with the Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, today (4th June 2024)

Having evidenced the materially damaging impact on the tourism sector and Scotland’s wider economy, there was detailed discussion around workable and legal solutions which will mitigate against the existing unintended consequences and further devastation to the small accommodation sector. De-coupling planning from licensing is critical, as is tangible change to the Guidance, ideally developed by an Industry / Local Authority Expert Group which has been so successful in the development of Visitor Levy Guidance. These simple steps will prevent further damage and restore confidence in the Scottish Government and the STL regulations.

We are confident and optimistic that with a reset in relations and meaningful engagement, we may be able to plug the hole in the ship and get it back on course.