Visitor Levy engagement – update

Last month, we launched an early engagement process to explore the potential introduction of a Visitor Levy in East Lothian.

This followed the passing of the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, which gives local authorities the option to introduce a percentage-based charge on overnight stays in accommodation such as hotels, self-catering, caravan parks, and campsites. 

At this stage, no decisions have been made. The purpose of this engagement is to gather views from businesses, residents, visitors and community organisations on whether a levy should be introduced, how it could be designed and collected, and how funds might be reinvested to benefit local communities and the visitor economy. 

To support this process, we are working with 56 Degree Insight, who are leading the engagement work. So far, businesses, residents and community groups have been actively feeding into responses, helping us build a clearer picture of local priorities and concerns. 

We want to hear from as many people as possible. The survey is open to everyone and will remain live until 30 November 2025. Your input is vital to ensure that any future decisions reflect the needs and priorities of East Lothian’s communities and tourism sector. 

To take part, please visit the 56 Degree Insight survey page. 

Please share the link, which is available from the front page of our website, with any interested colleagues, partners and networks to help us reach a wide audience.