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.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Stirling News

Scottish secondary schools can fundraise to feed hungry children

Secondary schools across Scotland can fundraise to feed an entire school of hungry children by signing up for a charity's life-changing Feed A School initiative.

Stirling Highland Games Announces Jackie Pirie as Chieftain for 2026

Stirling Highland Games is proud to announce that Jackie Pirie, the Stirling born television actress, acclaimed author and arts advocate, will serve as Chieftain of the Stirling Highland Games 2026.

FREE Event: Discover super powered plants at Dobbies Little Seedlings Club

Dobbies' free-to-attend children's gardening workshop is here for the month of May, giving children the chance to discover the 'Power of Plants'.

Snap up free tickets to The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Glasgow or Edinburgh

The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Scotland's only dedicated consumer exhibition for self-builders, home renovators and improvers, is back and we have free tickets up for grabs!

Voters across Stirling and Clackmannanshire urged to register to vote

Voters in the Stirling Constituency and the Clackmannanshire and Dunblane Constituency for the Scottish Parliament election on 7th May must make sure they are registered in time.

Harviestoun Brewery pop up returns with beer, bites & mischief on tap

Award-winning Scottish brewer Harviestoun, at the foot of the Ochils, is throwing open its brewery doors for a lively pop-up taproom event on Friday 24th April.

Stirling Council to operate year round Trossachs Explorer bus service

Stirling Council has agreed to take over the operation of the Trossachs Explorer bus service on a two-year pilot, starting this summer.

Spring clean shoes to protect heritage, urges National Trust for Scotland

With warmer days on the way, visitors to gardens at National Trust for Scotland places are being asked to follow biosecurity measures throughout the spring and summer seasons.

Fan favourites return to Vue venues in Scotland this spring

Vue is bringing a roster of much-loved film favourites back to the big screen this spring as part of a special anniversary season celebrating some of Hollywood’s most iconic titles.

New clean up event to take place across Stirling at end of May

Stirling Council is encouraging communities across Stirling to join in a special clean-up event on 30th and 31st May to enhance the quality of local environments and increase community pride.

Aldi calls on shoppers across Scotland to donate pet food in stores this National Pet Month

Aldi is encouraging shoppers in Scotland to donate pet food at its in-store community donation points this April to mark National Pet Month.

Forth Valley celebrates successful Food, Drink and Tourism Month 2026

Forth Valley's food, drink and tourism sector has been firmly in the spotlight following a highly successful Food, Drink and Tourism Business Month.

Taste the movie in 4DX with new Super Mario themed popcorn upgrade at Cineworld

Cineworld is inviting audiences to power up their cinema visit like never before, with the launch of a limited-edition Galactic popcorn topper created to complement the full sensory immersion of 4DX.

Sound Bites Festival brings boost for Alloa town centre and local producers

Alloa town centre enjoyed a surge of visitors as Sound Bites Festival returned on 28th March, delivering a day of live music, street food and family entertainment with a country and western twist.

Loch Lomond Springfest is back

Get ready for a brilliant weekend at the free Loch Lomond Springfest on 4th and 5th April, featuring world-class chefs, wild foraging, tasty street food and non-stop family fun for all ages!

Top family days and dining deals to enjoy in Scotland this Easter

Families looking to make the most of the Easter holidays in Scotland will find plenty to enjoy over the break!

Spring starts with Dobbies Spring Shopping Evening

Celebrate the colours of spring at Dobbies Spring Shopping Evening, a free-to-attend evening event dedicated to outdoor living and seasonal inspiration, taking place on Thursday 2nd April!

New series of drama workshops launches in Stirling to give refugees a voice through storytelling

A new drama and storytelling project bringing together Ukrainian, Afghan, Sudanese, Syrian and other refugees and local communities is set to launch in Stirling.

Last chance to enter for lunch with George Clooney

Entries are closing soon for the chance to have lunch with Hollywood icon George Clooney as part of itison's fundraising campaign for Social Bite.

Doors set to reopen across the country to some of the most iconic historic sites in Scotland

More than 40 historic seasonal sites across the country will reopen to visitors from Wednesday 1st April, as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) marks the start of its spring/summer season.

One of the best loved food brands in the country is bringing back its popular Golden Easter Hunt

Launching just in time for the school holidays, this year it's set to be bigger, bolder and even more exciting - and it's free for anyone to enter!

Spectacular stage productions to enjoy at Vue this spring

To celebrate World Theatre Day (27 March), Vue is highlighting upcoming theatre and opera productions showing on the big screen.

Theatre group performing Come From Away discovers real life links to September 11

Family link to 9/11 story behind Stirling's Come From Away production.

Trio of major funders back emergency heritage rescue at historic Bannockburn House

Good news really does come in threes for the community campaign dedicated to saving one of Scotland's most historic homes.

Young people lead boost for community projects across Forth Valley and Lomond

A new pump track, music workshops and a community food initiative that has helped deliver more than 3,000 meals were among youth-led projects celebrated at Callander Youth Project.

Green light for Stirling city trail that will transform visitor experience

Exciting plans to create a new interpretation and wayfinding trail that will transform the visitor experience in Stirling have been approved.

Come and experience the Ideal Home Show Scotland this Spring

Scotland's biggest home event is back at Glasgow SEC from 22nd - 25th May 2026 and we're delighted to offer free tickets to our readers!

Summer events taking place at historic sites across Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland has announced its summer events programme, with events taking place at iconic heritage sites across the country!

Stirling Council announces pilot of two new rural bus services

Stirling Council is launching a two-year pilot of two new bus services to improve connections between rural communities in the western part of the council area.

Hop into Easter at Dobbies with Gabbys Dollhouse Little Seedlings Club

Dobbies is teaming up with Gabby's Dollhouse to bring an extra special spring themed experience to families at its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club on 4th April, packed with fun and creativity.

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling

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.

Sponsored Links

Latest Stirling News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings