Mon Sep 23 22:40:33 UTC 2024: ## Scottish Highlands to Consider Tourist Tax to Curb Overtourism
The Scottish Highlands, a popular tourist destination, is considering introducing a tourist tax to manage the influx of visitors and invest in infrastructure and services.
This comes after the Scottish Parliament passed legislation in May allowing local authorities to impose a tourist levy. The Highland Council, which saw nearly 7 million visitors in 2022, has agreed in principle to implementing a visitor levy.
Councilor Ken Gowans, citing the incredible growth of the tourism industry, highlighted the strain it places on local infrastructure and services. He emphasized the need for investment to ensure the region remains a sustainable destination for the future.
If implemented, the Highlands would join other destinations like Venice and Mykonos, which are already implementing or planning to impose similar taxes to manage overtourism.
The Highland Council is expected to make a final decision on the tourist tax this fall.
First Piper 