The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has welcomed Dumfries & Galloway Council’s decision to reject proposals to introduce a visitor levy in the region.
The decision follows extensive debate around the potential impact of a visitor levy on local tourism businesses, accommodation providers and the wider visitor economy.
The ASSC has consistently raised concerns about the introduction of visitor levies across Scotland, warning that additional costs and administrative burdens risk undermining the competitiveness of tourism businesses at a time when many are already facing significant economic pressures.
Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the ASSC, said:
“The ASSC is delighted that Dumfries & Galloway Council has decided to vote down plans to introduce a potential visitor levy in the region. This is a victory for common sense, and just reward for our concerted efforts to prevent yet another untested tax on tourists and locals trying to sustain and grow their businesses.
“We can only hope that other regions of Scotland follow suit and reject this misleading ‘tourist tax’, and help us keep Scotland as both a welcoming destination and a place where businesses can flourish without the burden of additional and unnecessary red tape.”
The ASSC believes the decision reflects growing recognition of the challenges facing tourism businesses and the need for policies that support investment, growth and competitiveness rather than introducing additional costs.
Tourism remains a vital contributor to local economies across Scotland, supporting jobs, communities and businesses in urban, rural and island destinations alike. The ASSC continues to urge policymakers to work collaboratively with the sector to develop measures that encourage sustainable growth while maintaining Scotland’s reputation as a world-class visitor destination.
The association hopes that the outcome in Dumfries & Galloway will encourage other local authorities considering a visitor levy to carefully assess the potential economic impacts on tourism businesses and local communities before proceeding with similar proposals.