Following a successful competitive tendering process, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Orkney Islands Council and Shetland Islands Council have appointed a consultant to investigate the feasibility of a visitor levy scheme for each local authority area.

Urban Foresight has been appointed, with their team of consultants set to begin the work this week.

In September 2024, at a meeting of the Comhairle’s Sustainable Development Committee, it was agreed the Comhairle would develop a detailed outline of an Outer Hebrides Visitor Levy Scheme.

A formal engagement process with local communities, tourism businesses and organisations and other stakeholders will take place to understand potential impacts and help shape the design of a future scheme if progressed. Details will be publicised as soon as the consultation programme has been finalised.

A cost-benefit analysis – measuring the benefits of a scheme versus the associated costs – will also be undertaken. The findings of the feasibility investigations will then be presented to Comhairle Members to inform a decision on whether to follow other councils in introducing a visitor levy.