Foreword by the Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee

The visitor economy has long been a core industry and major employer in Highland, with the sector experiencing unprecedented growth in recent years as more and more people from the UK and beyond choose to visit the communities we call home and partake in the Highland hospitality we are known for around the world.

Sustaining the infrastructure and services used by visitors has become a challenge for local authorities. However, for the first time, councils in Scotland now have the power to introduce a Visitor Levy to generate revenue specifically for the benefit of the visitor economy after consultation with businesses, visitors, communities and tourism organisations.

I am therefore delighted to present this outline Visitor Levy Scheme for public consultation. I would encourage as many people to take part as possible, as it is essential that we capture a range of views – from businesses, communities, tourism organisations and those visiting for business and leisure purposes. When completing this consultation, I encourage all respondents to carefully consider the potential for investment in the facilities and services used by visitors for leisure or business purposes that this proposed scheme could generate.

It is paramount that we all work together to create the conditions for a sustainable and thriving visitor economy, mindful of the need to work in partnership to maximise our resources sustainably, support our communities and businesses to deliver a high-quality visitor experience, whilst driving the needed innovation and positive change that will safeguard our infrastructure and services for the future.

Cllr Ken Gowans, Vice Convener, The Highland Council.

The survey can be found by clicking on the link below:

https://consult.highland.gov.uk/kpse/event/36571DFB-0F00-4D02-B386-F77464ECE61A/form