More than 750 people and organisations have already taken part in the survey which is a key part of the formal consultation on the draft scheme.
The proposals, which were informed by feedback in an extensive public engagement process earlier this year, outline ambitious plans to enhance, support and future-proof the region’s visitor economy.
People have been sharing their views through the online survey, and a series of drop-in sessions that were held in September. A survey to explore specific concerns and support needed for accommodation providers should a levy be adopted has also generated a good response.
Final chance
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: “We have had another strong response from businesses, residents and visitors to the formal consultation on the Draft Visitor Levy Scheme with over 750 entries in the online survey alone. My thanks to everyone who has shared their views via the surveys or through the drop-in sessions.
“If you have still to take part, please do this before the main survey closes at midnight on Sunday 12 October, as this will be your final chance to shape the draft scheme for Stirling before council decides on whether to implement it in December.”
Using new powers granted by the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, the draft scheme proposes a 5% levy on overnight stays across all forms of paid visitor accommodation in the Stirling Council area.
Over and above the statutory exemptions, it features several Stirling specific exemptions to those paying the levy. This includes Stirling Council residents, those in the receipt of carers’ allowance and visitors staying more than seven nights (through reimbursement), as well as a site exemption scheme for charitable and educational organisations, where the purpose of the trip is primarily charitable or educational.
Following the statutory consultation period, a final version of the scheme will be presented to council in December. If approved, visitor levy income could be invested in priority areas such as:
- Improved infrastructure – including public toilets, sustainable transport, wayfinding and local facilities.
- Destination marketing and product development – promoting Stirling’s unique story, encouraging longer stays, and supporting local tourism hubs.
- Events and culture – delivering a distinctive events calendar and backing community-led festivals, especially in the low season.
- Supporting Community Led initiatives and events – “Community Tourism Fund”.
- Business support and skills – helping local businesses grow, improve their digital presence, and develop the workforce of tomorrow.
As many voices as possible
Cllr McGarvey said: “Introducing a levy would enable us to invest in our visitor economy, from building better facilities to attracting more events and festivals. This would support further growth in this vital sector and deliver a wide range of benefits for our communities.
"However, we also recognise the concerns that have been expressed of bringing in a levy, particularly from the accommodation sector.
“That’s why we need as many voices as possible to feed into the survey by October 12, to inform the creation of a draft scheme that reflects the needs and ambitions of everyone in the Stirling Council area, from Throsk to Tyndrum.”
The Stirling Visitor Levy, if approved in December, would take effect from 1 June 2027, applying to bookings made on or after 1 January 2027. More information on Stirling’s draft Visitor Levy scheme can be found at www.stirling.gov.uk/visitorlevy and on the Engage Stirling platform.