Edinburgh proposes tourist tax

Edinburgh is on track to become the first city in Scotland to introduce a tourism tax.

Edinburgh's councilors have voted in favor of a proposed tax that would apply to paid accommodation, according to UK media. including hotels, short-term rentals, hostels and guest houses, but will not include camping accommodation.

A consultation period will begin in the autumn, during which residents will be asked whether the 5% charge should be raised or lowered proposed in the original proposal.

The local authority intends to introduce it from the summer of 2026, and the scheme is estimated to generate up to £50 million (R1.1 billion) in year by 2028/29, if the final tax is 5%.

Revenues raised from the tourist tax will be used for public services, city maintenance, affordable housing and the preservation of the capital's cultural heritage.

However, opponents said it would discourage visitors and could damage Edinburgh's appeal as a tourist destination.

The levy would put Edinburgh on par with cities such as Amsterdam , Venice and Barcelona.

Source: travelnews.co.za