The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers has responded to Dumfries and Galloway Council’s consultation on the potential introduction of a tourist tax, warning that the measure could place unnecessary strain on local businesses and domestic tourists.
Fiona Campbell MBE, CEO of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:
“This announcement comes as a growing number of councils across Scotland are reconsidering their tourist tax plans, recognising the practical and economic challenges the percentage-based model presents. We strongly urge Dumfries and Galloway Council to closely monitor the rollout of the scheme in Edinburgh and await potential changes from the Scottish Government which could introduce greater flexibility and allow for a more effective and proportionate approach for small businesses like self-catering.
It is important to recognise that any local tax would not just apply to those travelling from overseas, it would be paid by ordinary Scots choosing to holiday within their own country. That fact is too often overlooked, especially at a time when many households are grappling with the cost of living, an additional tax on short breaks and staycations risks being counterproductive. Moreover, there’s also no evidence of overtourism in the region – this raises questions about the rationale for introducing such a charge in an area that actively seeks to attract more visitors, not deter them.
Self-catering is a cornerstone of rural tourism and supports jobs, livelihoods, and communities across Dumfries and Galloway, with our sector alone providing a £32m annual boost to the local area. The ASSC will engage constructively in the engagement process to ensure the concerns of our members and the wider tourism industry are fully understood. We sincerely hope that the Council see sense and follow other councils in taking the sensible and pragmatic step to postpone their work on this issue.”