In a pivotal move to enhance Highland’s tourism infrastructure, The Highland Council has announced an ambitious consultation on a proposed 5% Visitor Levy scheme, which could inject a substantial £10 million annually into the region’s tourism sector.
The comprehensive public consultation, launching on 15 November 2024, represents a crucial step forward in the Council’s strategic vision outlined in ‘Our Future Highland 2022-2027’, marking a significant shift in how the region manages and develops its tourism resources.
Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Councillor Ken Gowans, emphasises the transformative potential of this initiative, highlighting how the generated funds would be strategically reinvested to enhance visitor experiences across the Highlands.
The Council has implemented multiple channels for public engagement, including an accessible online platform at www.highland.gov.uk/vlconsultation, a dedicated phone line (01349 781020), and email support at visitorlevyconsultation@highland.gov.uk, ensuring widespread participation from businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
This carefully considered approach includes a series of online stakeholder sessions, demonstrating the Council’s commitment to transparent and inclusive decision-making throughout the consultation period, which extends to 7 February 2025.
Following the requirements set forth in the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, the Council will present a comprehensive report in spring 2025, with the potential implementation of the scheme scheduled for autumn 2026, should it receive approval.
This forward-thinking initiative reflects the Highlands’ proactive stance in sustainable tourism development, aiming to balance the region’s growing appeal as a premier destination with the need for robust infrastructure and services.
The proposed levy represents a strategic investment in the Highland’s tourism future, promising to enhance visitor experiences while ensuring the region’s tourism infrastructure remains sustainable and world-class for generations to come.
Tourism industry experts are particularly interested in how this pioneering scheme could serve as a model for other Scottish regions, potentially reshaping the landscape of tourism management across Scotland.
