The City of Edinburgh Council has opened a citywide consultation on proposals for a Transient Visitor Levy (TVL) or ‘Tourist Tax’.
Having conducted detailed research, informal engagement with industry stakeholders and an in-depth survey of residents and visitors, the Council last month set out key aspects of how a scheme could look.
Now, views are being sought from all city stakeholders but, in particular, the hospitality and tourism sector, plus city businesses and investors, culture partners, visitors and residents, concerning the best possible arrangements for introducing a TVL in Edinburgh.
The draft proposal suggested a charge of either 2% or £2 per room per night, chargeable all year round on all forms of accommodation, including short-term lets, but capped at seven nights. Respondents are being asked for their views on the details of the scheme but also importantly what any income raised should be spent on.
The Council has been clear that it sees the purpose of this fund as being to invest in and manage the consequences of the future success of tourism within the city and respondents will also be asked to identify things they feel could benefit from the estimated to be at least £11m per annum that would be raised.
Alongside the online consultation, which will last for eight weeks, the Council is planning further targeted engagement with stakeholders. This will include three open workshops with industry representatives, a workshop with investors and four resident focus groups.
Officers, meanwhile, continue to make offers to attend board meetings, membership meetings and 1:1s with industry and other partners.
To give your views please visit the consultation hub
