ARGYLL and Bute Council is set to have more choice in how it applies any potential visitor levy after new legislation was published.
The authority paused the visitor levy process for the area in September in order to seek clarity on possible changes to legislation.
It has now been announced that a new Bill could see councils being allowed to set a visitor levy as a fixed amount should they wish to do so instead of a percentage.
If passed by the Scottish Parliament, the Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill would allow councils to set a range of fixed amounts for different locations, times of year or types of accommodation. It is hoped that the bill can be passed in parliament “within the current session”.
A special council meeting has been arranged for Thursday, January 29, where it has been confirmed that the visitor levy will be among the items on the agenda.
Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: “When we introduced the original visitor levy legislation, we wanted to empower councils to implement a scheme that was right for their areas and easy to understand for local businesses.
“We worked closely with councils and tourism bodies when the original legislation was considered and passed by Parliament. These new proposals will give councils even more flexibility and provide clarity to businesses.
“We want to ensure visitor levies are an effective option for councils who choose to introduce them to boost investment in local economies and services.”
A statement by the Scottish Government also said: “If the Bill is passed, councils may choose to introduce a visitor levy that is based on either the existing percentage rate model or a fixed amount model.
“The Bill does not require councils to introduce a levy, it provides additional options for those that choose to do so.
“Under a fixed amount model, councils will also be able to apply the levy on a per person per night or a per night basis.
“Subject to the parliamentary timetable, it is hoped the Bill will be passed in the current session.”
