Public to be consulted on tourist tax proposal

Stirling Council has approved a draft 'tourist tax' scheme for the area to go to a public consultation on the proposals.

- CHRIS MARZELLA

Using new powers granted by the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, Stirling Council's scheme would see a five-per cent levy, or 'tourist tax,' slapped on overnight stays across all forms of paid visitor accommodation in the Stirling Council area.

Over and above the statutory exemptions, the draft scheme also proposes several exemptions to paying the tax, including to Stirling Council residents, those in the receipt of carers' allowance and to visitors staying more than seven nights through reimbursement.

The council says that the draft scheme aims to ensure that Stirling continues to attract visitors all year-round while spreading the benefits more evenly across the region as well as minimising the impact on communities and the environment.

The consultation is due to get underway next month.

In December last year, the local authority committed to a yearlong programme of engagement and consultation.

The first phase ran from March to May this year and received 671 responses via online and paper surveys, with additional feedback gathered through a number of community meetings, drop-in events and direct business engagement.

The council said initial findings showed broad support among residents (57 per cent) and community groups (75 per cent).