Anyone involved with the local tourism sector is invited to an in-person workshop early next month to explore the feasibility of a visitor levy scheme in Shetland.
On 20 September 2024, the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024 gave discretionary powers to Councils to introduce a levy on overnight stays, raising income to provide facilities and services for visitors.
The feasibility of a visitor levy scheme is currently being considered in Shetland, Orkney and the Western Isles – although Councils are not obliged to implement such a levy. Any scheme, if implemented, would aim to improve services and facilities for local visitors and reduce pressures on infrastructure.
Consultants Urban Foresight will be in Shetland to lead this public session and meet with local stakeholders, to discuss concerns and opportunities for any such scheme from tourism-related businesses and anyone who may be impacted by a visitor levy.
The two-hour workshop is open to anyone working in local tourism businesses, including tour operators, anyone running visitor attractions or hospitality venues, and accommodation providers, such as hotels, guest houses, self-catering premises, or campsites or caravan parks.
The in-person workshop will take place on Tuesday 1st April 2025, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in the Auditorium at Mareel Arts Centre, Lerwick. Advance registration is required to attend this event, through EventBrite
An online webinar will also take place on Wednesday 26th March 2025 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm for anyone unable to attend the in-person event. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to register through EventBrite for a link.
A Visitor Levy survey is also available online and is open for responses until Friday 11th April 2025.
Dennis Leask, Chair of the Council's Development Committee, said: “The new visitor levy legislation could provide an opportunity to boost the visitor experience for tourists to Shetland and benefit local communities. However, we need to better understand the potential risks to the tourist economy and any impacts of a visitor levy, before we consider introducing it in Shetland. I’d encourage anyone with an interest in this area to give us their thoughts at the workshop or webinar, or by filling in the survey.”