GLASGOW'S new tourist tax has been given the go-ahead – with visitors to be charged on average £4.83 per night.
The visitor levy due to be introduced on January, 25, 2027 will see people pay 5% of their accommodation bill for every night of their entire stay.
It is expected the fee could bring in about £16 million annually after costs and will apply to hotels, hostels, guest houses, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation.
Speaking at the city administration committee on Thursday, City treasurer Ricky Bell said he and leader Susan Aitken “had been lobbying the Scottish Government for some time to give us more powers to be able to raise our own revenues and this is the start of what I hope will be a continuation of those powers being devolved to local government.”
It is proposed that hotel operators keep 1.5% of the amount collected to make up for any costs incurred. Organisations who don’t comply would face penalties.
Councillors approved the visitor levy at the city administration committee on Thursday morning.
Cash generated would go towards the look and feel of the city with investment in infrastructure and the “built and natural environment” as well as culture and events and marketing of the city as a destination to grow visitors.
A visitor levy forum is also to be set up to provide advice to the council relating to the scheme and it is proposed those involved in the visitor sector and representatives from communities would have a key role.
Employees are to be appointed at Glasgow City Council to handle the process and annual costs are estimated to be about £750,000 to £950,000 – with initial set up expected to be £400,000.
Scottish Green councillors moved an amendment at the committee relating to accommodation provider costs stating that they “may only retain money under this rebate scheme for three years” and providing more details on penalties if they don’t pay.
The amendment was rejected by Labour, the SNP and a Conservative councillor.
Commenting, Scottish Green councillor Blair Anderson, whose motion started the process, said: “The tourist tax is going to be a game-changer for Glasgow, delivering more money to tidy up our city and make it even more attractive for visitors and residents alike.
“A small contribution from tourists will mean we can invest millions more in street sweeping, bin collections, and getting Glasgow looking good again.
“I’m glad that Greens in Holyrood got this law passed, and I’m grateful to all councillors who have worked with me over recent months to get this tax in place as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “Glasgow is a global city, drawing visitors from all over the world. But we have seen how over-tourism can damage communities, like in Venice and Barcelona, where the residents end up paying the price.
“The tourist tax is vital to delivering sustainable tourism where local residents feel the benefit of our tourism and events sectors. I’m delighted that Glasgow is continuing to benefit from Green policy in action.”
