As The Highland Council launches its 12-week Consultation on a proposed Visitor Levy, following the Scottish Government’s invitation to local authorities, Inverness Councillor Dr Michael Gregson expressed “concern” about the impact such a Levy would have on Inverness businesses.
“Given that Inverness is the only major city in Scotland where occupancy is decreasing, our accommodation providers may well be sceptical about this additional charge they have to make to their guests.
“That’s not to say there aren’t valuable improvements to infrastructure that a Levy could provide across the Region – which is, frankly, struggling to cope with overall increased visitor numbers.
“But the costs of providing hospitality have risen considerably, and as the sector seeks to rebuild after several difficult years, it is vital that the sector responds to the consultation, and the Council reaches a sensible and practical decision.
“At present I am concerned about potential impact.”
