Group wants pause on Stirling visitor levy plans

A tourism group is urging Stirling Council to pause plans to introduce a visitor levy.

The local authority's asking people for their views on the proposals.

Council documents show a 1% charge would raise up to £2.3 million a year.

The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers say the proposals have "caused disquiet".

A Stirling Council spokesperson say they "welcome" the input of stakeholders, and want as many people as possible to have their say.

Fiona Campbell, CEO of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:

“This is a pivotal moment and we urge all those with a stake in Scottish tourism, especially our important self-catering community, to respond to Stirling’s consultation without delay. Whether you are a local business, a Scottish resident who holidays in your own country, or someone who works away from home and relies on short-term accommodation – your voice matters. Tourism is not just for tourists - it’s for families, workers, and communities. The outcomes of this will shape how, and whether, tourism can continue to grow and thrive in Stirling. There’s a lot at stake so the Council must tread carefully with their plans.

While tourist levies are common in other destinations, there are key differences. First, it is a tax on a tax: the 5% Stirling levy itself would be subject to 20% VAT, something unheard of in Europe. Other destinations have a reduced rate of VAT on tourism services, where Scotland does not. Second, the Council needs to be open about who will be paying. This is not an ‘international’ levy paid only by foreign tourists with exemptions for residents, but one applicable to ordinary Scots staying overnight in Stirling who have already made a financial contribution to local services. And as with all taxes, the only way is up, especially when councils are deprived of funds.

Overall, Stirling Council must listen to the voice of business who will ultimately be responsible for administering this scheme. Whilst we oppose a Stirling levy, the ASSC has set out a range of proactive and positive recommendations to help minimise the regulatory burden for affected businesses which we hope will be considered by the Council.”

A Stirling Council spokesperson said: “We welcome the input of all stakeholders, including the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, to our initial public engagement on the draft visitor levy for Stirling.

“The more people and organisations who have their say on how the levy could work will ensure the draft scheme, if implemented, maximises the potential benefits for everyone, from residents to accommodation providers and visitors.

“While a visitor levy could offer opportunities to reinvest revenues in key infrastructure used by visitors and residents, such as roads, pavements, leisure facilities and parks, it would also need to reflect the needs of Stirling’s key tourism sector.

“To help achieve this balance in the draft scheme, we would encourage as many people to have their say before the survey closes at midnight on Sunday 4 May.”