Falkirk considers a visitor tax possibly adding 5% to stays, aiming to raise £1M for visitor site improvements after consultation.
Council members agreed to consider a visitor fee. It will likely add five percent to stays. They will discuss how to spend the money. Expect a consultation period of about two years.
The improvements would help visitors and locals. Projects include cleaning streets, park upkeep, and more toilets. Festive lights and events are possibilities too.
Studies show tourist taxes can have a positive impact. Extra funding could attract more visitors. Getting the systems ready will be tricky. They want to make money collection simple.
The council will consider some exemptions. People visiting hospital patients may not pay. They will examine limiting charges by night. This could aid long-term workers.
Implementing the tax needs lots of work. The council will develop a draft scheme. Falkirk attracts over 800,000 visitors. Over 500,000 stay overnight. Tourism brings in £150 million.
Popular places include the Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel. The Kelpies want one million yearly visitors by 2028. A new distillery and town hall are coming. An art park is also planned.
New law lets Scottish councils charge visitors. Edinburgh and others are thinking about it. Businesses collect the fee. Councils use it for tourism projects.
Consultants think tax revenue could hit £1 million. This is before setup and collection costs. They need to study levy funds more closely.
One councillor disagreed, worrying about damage. An association urged the council to listen to businesses. They warned about taxing a tax. VAT adds another 20 percent.
The association wants fair governance and thoughtful action. The association wishes money for tourism infrastructure only. Poor action could harm the industry. A final decision comes in 2026/27.