THE opinions of those in the tourism industry will be sought concerning the potential implementation of an Aberdeenshire Visitor Levy.
The Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024 gives local authorities the power to introduce a levy, which is charged at a percentage rate on the purchase of overnight accommodation.
Edinburgh has already started the levy process, with many other authorities now also considering the move.
During a meeting of Aberdeenshire Council, there was cross-chamber support for developing an engagement process for the tourism sector.
Types of accommodation which could be considered for any levy could include hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, self-catering, camping sites and caravan parks.
Any future levy would enable Aberdeenshire Council to invest more in local tourism facilities and services.
Helping it develop, support, and sustain the local visitor economy in accordance with its tourism and regional economic strategies.
Councillor Gillian Owen, leader of Aberdeenshire Council, said afterwards: “We have a vibrant and growing tourism sector in Aberdeenshire that supports 7,300 FTE jobs and generates £486m in economic impact annually.
“It is essential that we fully understand both the impact and opportunities that a visitor levy will bring to Aberdeenshire and that its introduction must not stifle the continued growth of our tourism sector.
“I look forward to the engagement process, which will help officers develop a proposed visitor levy scheme for Aberdeenshire.
“We will be able to make an informed decision as to whether a visitor levy will harm or support the continued growth of the tourism sector in Aberdeenshire.”
Depute leader, councillor Anne Stirling said: “Tourism is one of our six key sectors in Aberdeenshire, with more than 4.4 million people visiting our area annually and 1.29 million staying in the area overnight.
“It is, therefore, vital that we safeguard the continued growth of the Aberdeenshire tourist sector.
“I am pleased that councillors from across the chamber have agreed to investigate the potential of a visitor levy, which will enable services to carefully collate all the evidence we gather over the coming months and which will allow us to make a decision later this year.”
Further details of the process will be published in the coming months. However, the council anticipates the public consultation running from June to September.
