East Lothian Council is surveying local businesses and communities on the potential introduction of a Visitor Levy in the county to help shape the development of proposals.
Following approval by Council last year to draw up a draft Visitor Levy, consultants Stantec and 56 Degrees Insight have now been appointed to support the next phase of work. They will lead stakeholder engagement while carrying out detailed economic modelling over the coming months.
The move follows the passing of the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, which gives local authorities the option to introduce a percentage-based charge on overnight stays, including hotels, self-catering, caravan parks and campsites. Importantly, money raised would be reinvested locally to support and enhance the visitor experience and benefit communities.
Councillor John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “This investigative work over the next few months will explore how a Visitor Levy might be designed to reflect East Lothian’s unique character and priorities, and it is vitally important that we gather initial views from businesses, tourism partners and communities at this stage.
“The potential to introduce a Visitor Levy presents a valuable opportunity to sustainably support and enhance local tourism infrastructure and communities. By generating dedicated revenue from visitors, local authorities can invest in promoting their area, maintaining public spaces, preserving cultural and natural heritage and improving services that benefit both residents and visitors.
High-quality visitor experience
“This approach helps ensure that tourism growth contributes directly to the wellbeing of the area, reducing pressure on local resources and fostering a more balanced, responsible and high-quality visitor experience.
“However, it is hugely important that we get this right so I would encourage as many individuals and businesses as possible to have their say.”
Recent visitor survey results show encouraging support for the concept, with 62% of visitors in favour of a levy, rising to 76% when informed that the funds would be used to improve visitor-facing services. Initial feedback from the business community has been more mixed, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration as the proposals are developed and tested.
The engagement and modelling work is expected to conclude and be reported to Council in early 2026. Subject to a decision on the proposed levy design, a formal statutory consultation period on an East Lothian Visitor Levy would be undertaken in the spring of 2026.
To take part please visit https://56insight.questionpro.com/ELVL before 30 November 2025.
For more information visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/visitor-levy