The Scottish Government has confirmed that changes will be made to the proposed Visitor Levy Bill, in a move welcomed by marine tourism stakeholders.
As previously reported on Afloat.ie, the bill had proposed giving powers to local authorities in Scotland to decide whether to charge a levy on visitor accommodation — including mooring and berthing for boats — in their respective areas.
Following concerns raised by marine tourism providers around the potential impact of such a levy, the bill will now move to Stage 2 with an exemption for boat moorings and berthings unless they are permanently moored and used for accommodation.
The move has been welcomed by RYA Scotland, British Marine and several marine tourism stakeholders, as well as the Parliamentary Committee leading on the bill.
RYA Scotland adds that it’s hoped this change will come as a relief to mooring providers, including small businesses and voluntary organisations, in Scottish waters.
The RYA website has more on the story HERE.
