ASSC CEO Weekly Round-Up: Driving Progress, Shaping Policy and Leading with Evidence

This has been a week defined by action and momentum. From climate-focused collaboration in Stirling to visitor levy engagement and major conference planning across the UK and Ireland, the ASSC continues to ensure that Scotland’s self-catering sector is represented, respected and heard.

Green is the New Gold – Stirling Regional Gathering

This week, the ASSC hosted its Stirling Regional Gathering focused on climate action in self-catering. The message was clear: sustainability is not a cost, it is a competitive advantage. Operators shared practical steps on energy efficiency, low-carbon heating, greener cleaning systems, and waste reduction. The level of optimism and innovation in the room was hugely encouraging.

State of the Nation – Headlines from Stirling

Members received a comprehensive update on where the sector stands, and what has shifted since summer:

• Visitor Levy – There is growing acknowledgement of the challenges a percentage-based model would create for smaller operators. Discussions are now focused on identifying a more practical and proportionate approach for all parts of the sector.
• Non-Domestic Rates – A one-off evidence window has been secured for operators wrongly moved to Council Tax to return to NDR. Updated FAQs are published, and the ASSC advises submitting annual evidence every 1 April and requesting written confirmation of receipt.

• Planning and Licensing Reform – Following sustained pressure, Ministers have committed to clearer evidence requirements, clarity on liability insurance, alignment with Scottish Fire and Rescue guidance, clearer rules on objections, One Premises One Licence, and hot tub requirements. This removes ambiguity and stops local authorities inventing their own rules.

• Political Shift – Ministers have acknowledged that reform is needed and have asked for formal proposals rather than consultation responses. The tone has changed, and there is now a genuine route to fix duplication between licensing and planning.

• Practical Regulatory Wins – Engagement with PPL PRS resulted in a commitment for a pause on penalties, corrected invoices, an enforcement amnesty, and updated guidance for operators.

The mood in Stirling was constructive, confident, and forward-looking. After years of uncertainty, real movement is happening.

Evidence Session with Welsh Government

Alongside the Scottish Tourism Alliance, Fiona Campbell MBE, CEO of the ASSC, gave evidence to the Welsh Government on the Development of Tourism and Regulation of Visitor Accommodation Bill. The session presented Scotland’s lived experience of licensing, supported by legal rulings and real-world impact. The key message was: regulate with purpose, rely on data, protect communities, and avoid the unintended consequences seen in Scotland. Wales has the opportunity to take a proportionate, lawful, and practical route, built on registration, mandatory safety compliance, and clear policy objectives.

Advocacy and Evidence – Keeping the Conversation Honest

Fiona continued to use platforms to speak up for the sector and for the importance of evidence in policymaking. Engagement across LinkedIn this week demonstrates how strongly operators, partners, and industry stakeholders value facts over rhetoric and collaboration over confrontation.

Fife Visitor Levy Consultation

Fife Council has launched its consultation on a local visitor levy. The ASSC will submit a formal response and encourages operators and partners in Fife to participate. Any levy must be simple, digital, transparent, and fair. The ASSC will continue to advocate for solutions that work in practice, not just in theory.

Non-Domestic Rates – New Scottish Government FAQs

The Scottish Government has issued updated FAQs on the 2023–24 evidence window for non-domestic rates. After prolonged uncertainty for many operators, this additional clarity is welcome. Members with questions can contact the ASSC office for guidance.

Guest Lecturing at Edinburgh Napier University

Fiona delivered a guest lecture at Edinburgh Napier University about her journey to CEO and the power of evidence-led advocacy. The students were engaged and genuinely curious about the link between tourism, rural economies, regulation, and real people. It is always a privilege to speak with future leaders.

Conference Season – Preparing the Industry Message

Fiona is gearing up for a series of high-profile speaking engagements:

• Association of Serviced Accommodation Providers Conference, London – Completed prep for the “Caught in the Crossfire” panel on regulation, narrative, and misinformation.

• Irish Self-Catering Federation Conference, Co. Clare – Preparing a keynote: Lessons from Scotland – Evidence, Law, and What Must Happen Next.

• Hoseasons Conference, Brighton – Fiona will speak on the “Legislation and Lobbying” panel.

• Scale UK, Manchester – Fiona will participate in two panels:
  – Become More Bookable, Lovable & Profitable
  – Stronger Than Ever: How Resilience and Changing Demand Are Shaping Our Future

Women of Achievement Lunch with Dame Prue Leith

Fiona attended the Women of Achievement Lunch, celebrating leadership, creativity, and inspiration across sectors. Sharing time with Dame Prue Leith and so many exceptional women was a genuine highlight of the week.

Looking Ahead

Next week will focus on:

• Policy submissions

• Conference briefing materials

• Visitor levy engagement

• Sector communications and member support

The ASSC will continue to stand up for fair, proportionate, and evidence-based regulation, and to champion the businesses that keep Scotland’s communities, supply chains, and visitor economy alive.