A consultation which seeks views from businesses and residents on the proposed visitor levy ends on 15 December.
More than 3,000 people have already responded with their views on what is likely to be the first Scottish tourist tax in July 2026. Before then there is a pop up in Waverley Mall on Thursday for residents to find out more, and an online business event on Monday when capital businesses can add their views.
Councillors have already agreed that the tax will be set at 5% on all overnight stays – but capped at seven nights. The revenue is considerable and estimated to bring in around £100 million to the capital by 2030.
Council Leader Cammy Day said: “We already know from the huge amount of engagement we’ve previously carried out that the introduction of a levy has overwhelming support here in Edinburgh.This is echoed loud and clearin the fantastic consultation response we’ve had so far.
“I’m grateful to the thousands of people who have been involved to date, who have been quick to tell uswhat they think of our proposed scheme andwhere they’d like the money raised from Edinburgh’s levy to be spent.
“With the potential to bring in tens of millions of pounds a year once it’s established, a Visitor Levy for Edinburgh presents a huge opportunity for us to invest sustainably in maintaining and developing the things that make our city such a great place to visit – and live in – all year round. Once in place, it will offer the biggest and most supportive source of new funding for Edinburgh’s cultural sector since the start of National Lottery funding 30 years ago.
“I’m pleased that the vast majority of those who have already taken part in our final consultation are residents, who clearly feel passionate about the benefits a levy will bring to our city and to our communities. My message now is to businesses and visitors – please don’t miss this opportunity to have your say.”
Launched as soon as the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024 came into force – which grants Scottish councils the authority to introduce a levy on overnight stays within their regions – the Council started its formal 12-week consultation on its draft visitor levy scheme on 23 September.
To take part click here to go to the consultation website before 15 December. Residents and visitors can also drop-in to a Waverley Station pop-up on Thursday 14 November while businesses can sign up to attend an online briefing on Monday 18 November.
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