Millions of tourists in UK could be asked to pay local visitor levy

As local councils grapple with budget constraints, nearly half of Scotland's councils are contemplating a visitor levy on overnight stays, primarily due to overwhelming tourist numbers.

Edinburgh is set to lead the UK with a mandatory visitor levy starting in July 2026, anticipating to generate up to £50 million each year to fund public amenities.

Gwynedd, Pembrokeshire, and Cardiff are expected to benefit from a proposed Welsh visitor levy that aims to enhance investments in tourism and related services.

Highland council is consulting with local stakeholders about a 5% tourist levy, which aims to generate necessary funds and alleviate the strain from increased tourist traffic.

Read at www.theguardian.com