The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has expressed concern following Perth & Kinross Council’s decision to proceed with a consultation on the introduction of a visitor levy.
Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:
“The ASSC is deeply concerned that Perth & Kinross Council is pressing ahead with a visitor levy consultation at this time. Scotland’s self-catering sector is already operating under an accumulated regulatory burden that is stretching small, independent businesses to their limits. Adding costs on to holidays for families and budget-conscious consumers risks driving them elsewhere where their money goes further. We would urge the Council to reflect carefully on the evidence before them and we hope that when the consultation concludes, common sense will prevail and the Council will think twice before proceeding.”
The ASSC has consistently called for an evidence-led approach to policy-making and recently submitted a detailed briefing to Perth & Kinross councillors ahead of their consideration of both a Visitor Levy and a Short-Term Let Planning Control Area. The briefing urged elected members to carefully assess the likely economic and community impacts of any proposed measures and to ensure that decisions are based on clear evidence and measurable outcomes.