- The Shetland Islands Council has decided against introducing a visitor levy, or tourist tax, for overnight stays.
- Council leader Emma Macdonald stated that a visitor levy “just isn’t the answer” for the islands' specific context.
- A report to councillors concluded that the “risks outweigh the benefits”, citing administrative burdens on accommodation providers and potential negative impacts on tourist numbers.
- The council is considering alternative revenue streams, such as a cruise ship levy, which is deemed potentially more favourable given the high number of cruise passengers visiting the islands.
- This decision contrasts with Edinburgh and Glasgow, which have voted to implement visitor levies, but aligns with South Ayrshire, which also abandoned similar plans.
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