Drop in sessions begin on draft Visitor Levy scheme for Stirling
Businesses, visitors and residents are urged to feedback on Stirling’s draft Visitor Levy scheme as drop-in sessions begin.
Article Source: Stirling Council
Last Updated: 2 September 2025 10:46
More than 400 people have already taken part in the consultation on Stirling’s draft Visitor Levy scheme ahead of the start of a series of drop-in sessions.
The draft scheme, which was informed by feedback in an extensive public engagement process earlier this year, outlines ambitious plans to enhance, support and future-proof the region’s visitor economy.
Residents, visitors and businesses have been sharing their views on the draft scheme through an online survey which opened on 14 July and runs until 12 October.
During September there will be an opportunity to feedback on the proposed draft scheme at in-person sessions in locations across the Stirling area, with council staff involved in the scheme in attendance. These will take place at the following dates and times:
• Stirling - Tuesday 9 September 2025, 10am-6pm, Albert Halls
• Balfron - Thursday 11 September 2025 10am – 6pm, McLintock Hall
• Drymen -Thursday 17 September 2025, 10am-6pm, Drymen Village Hall
• Killin -Thursday 23 September 2025, 10am-6pm, McLaren Hall
• Callander -Monday 29 September 2025, 10am-6pm, Callander Youth Project Trust.
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: “The drop-in sessions are a crucial part of the formal consultation on the draft Visitor Levy scheme for Stirling.
“They are an opportunity for all businesses, residents and visitors to find out more about the draft scheme, ask any questions and to take part in the survey.
“This phase of the consultation is the final chance to shape what the final scheme could look like before the council makes the decision this December on whether to implement it– so make sure your voice is heard on the future of tourism in Stirling by coming to these events and by taking part in the online survey.
“I would also encourage those who took part first round of public engagement on this important matter to do so again if you haven’t already. This survey differs to the early engagement work and the more people and organisations that have their say at this stage will inform the creation of a scheme that reflects the needs and aspirations of all of Stirling.”
Barry Makin, General Manager at the Cromlix Hotel in Dunblane, joined the Council Leader at the historic Albert Halls, Stirling – the venue for the first drop-in session – and urged accommodation providers and the wider tourism sector to take part in the consultation.
He said: “It is vital that businesses within the accommodation sector share their views on the proposed visitor levy and play an active role in the discussion.
“While a well-structured levy has the potential to deliver real benefits for our local communities, it is equally important to recognise that accommodation providers will have many concerns.
“This consultation is an important opportunity for those concerns to be raised and considered, ensuring that the final scheme presented to the council is representative of the views of the sector.”
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 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.
• Business support and skills – helping local businesses grow, improve their digital presence, and develop the workforce of tomorrow.
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.
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