The Highland Council has welcomed the Scottish Government’s move to introduce greater flexibility in designing Visitor Levy schemes. Following extensive consultation and feedback from accommodation providers and the wider tourism sector, the Council pressed for the option to implement either a percentage-based or flat-rate levy. The planned legislation, expected in early 2026, aims to simplify administration while allowing councils to tailor schemes to local needs.
Highland Council Convener, Cllr Bill Lobban said:
“Having listened very carefully to the strength of feedback received from our accommodation providers and others, we pressed the Scottish Government for this change. This flexibility means we can consider a Visitor Levy Scheme which could work for Highland – one that could support accommodation providers and local businesses, and potentially provide multi-million pound spend in our region to support, sustain and develop infrastructure and services primarily used by visitors. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to our consultation.”
Read the full update on the Highland Council website here.