14-07-2025
Public consultation launched on plans to introduce 'tourist tax' in Stirling
The draft Stirling Visitor Levy scheme, known as the 'tourist tax' has opened for public consultation and would see visitors hit with an additional charge on overnight accommodation.
A public consultation on the proposed ' tourist tax ' in Stirling has been launched.
Stirling Council is inviting feedback on the draft Visitor Levy scheme for the area, as the public consultation goes live.
The draft scheme, which was given the green light by the council to proceed to consultation last month, utilises new powers granted by the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024. It proposes a five-per cent levy on overnight stays across all forms of paid visitor accommodation within the Stirling Council area.
In addition to statutory exemptions, the scheme includes several Stirling-specific exemptions for those paying the levy – including Stirling Council residents, recipients of carers' allowance and visitors staying more than seven nights (through reimbursement). A site exemption scheme is also proposed for charitable and educational organisations, where the trip's primary purpose is charitable or educational.
Residents and other stakeholders, including the local tourism sector, are now invited to share their views on the draft scheme through an online survey. Paper copies are also available in Stirling Council libraries, with the consultation running until October 12.
Businesses, accommodation providers, residents and visitors can also provide feedback on the proposals at drop-in sessions in various locations across Stirling in September.
The sessions are scheduled as follows: Albert Halls in Stirling on September 9, from 11am-6pm; The John McLintock Hall, Balfron, on September 11 from 10am–6pm; Drymen Village hall on September 17 from 10am-6pm; McLaren Hall in Killin on September 23 from 10am-6pm; and Callander Youth Project Trust on September 29 from 10am-6pm.
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: "Tourism is a vital part of Stirling's economy and we want it to continue growing. The draft Visitor Levy scheme has been produced with the aim of achieving this objective and maximising the potential benefits for all, supported by the extensive and constructive feedback we received in our initial public engagement.
"The formal consultation is the final opportunity to influence a draft Visitor Levy scheme for Stirling before a decision is made on its implementation at the end of the year. I would encourage everyone, from accommodation providers to residents and visitors, to feedback on the scheme to ensure it reflects the needs of all of Stirling.
"The online survey will run for three months to allow plenty of time for the public to consider and share views on these important proposals. We have also arranged drop-in sessions in locations across the Stirling area during September for people and businesses to learn more, ask questions and have their say."
After the statutory consultation period concludes, a finalised proposal for the scheme will be submitted to the council in December. Should it receive approval, the revenue from the Visitor Levy could be channelled into key areas such as infrastructure enhancement, destination development, cultural events, and support for businesses and skills.
If greenlit in December, the 'tourist tax' is set to come into effect from June 1, 2027, and would apply to bookings made on or after January 1, 2027.
In May, the Stirling Observer reported on concerns raised by a hospitality trade organisation that the proposed 'tourist tax' might negatively affect tourism in the area. UK Hospitality Scotland has called on the council to conduct a comprehensive economic impact assessment of the visitor levy's potential effects.
UK Hospitality Scotland's Executive Director, Leon Thompson, said: "Hospitality and tourism is so important to Stirling, as a major employer and driver of the local economy.
"That economic and social contribution to our communities must be protected and we fundamentally believe that introducing a visitor levy could harm tourism in Stirling.
"That's why Stirling Council should carry out a detailed impact assessment to understand the potential impact on visitors, tourism and the economy, before it embarks further on potentially introducing a levy.
"We're keen to work with the council so they understand the perspective of accommodation businesses and I look forward to engaging further with them during this process."
The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers (ASSC) voiced concerns last December, suggesting that the introduction of a visitor levy in Stirling could burden small businesses with the role of "de-facto unpaid tax collectors".
Fiona Campbell, ASSC chief executive, said that if such a tax were to be implemented, it must "be done right".
In April, a campaign group opposing the levy cautioned that Stirling's hospitality industry might face a surge in cancellations due to the proposed charge.
The Back British Holidays campaign highlighted the risk of up to 21-per cent of potential visitors scrapping their plans because of the extra cost.
Moreover, they indicated that an additional 21-per cent might curtail their spending during their stay. The campaigners urged officials to rethink the levy, fearing it could deal a severe blow to the local tourism sector and result in millions of pounds in lost revenue for local enterprises.
Views can be shared via Stirling Council's online survey here.
Paper copies are also available at the region's libraries.
