Draft Visitor Levy Scheme: Consultation
The Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024 allows councils to introduce a small charge on overnight stays in paid accommodation. Any money raised would be used to support local services and facilities that visitors use and contribute to local areas.
Earlier this year, Falkirk Council carried out initial engagement on this proposal (see Early Engagement Survey Report). We are now asking for your views on a Draft Visitor Levy Scheme for the Falkirk area. The aims are to grow Falkirk’s visitor economy, make the area more attractive and enjoyable for visitors, support a sustainable year round tourism sector, create vibrant places, and raise Falkirk’s profile as a destination.
Your feedback will help inform a decision on whether a visitor levy should be introduced, which is expected to be considered by Full Council in early 2027. We want to hear from residents, visitors, accommodation providers, businesses, community groups and anyone with an interest in the area. We're also looking for views on how the scheme should work if it goes ahead.
Events
Upcoming and ongoing events
Event date: September 15th, 2026 from 15:00 to 18:00.
104 High Street
2 registrants
Event date: September 24th, 2026 from 15:00 to 18:00.
Grangemouth Library
Event date: September 28th, 2026 from 15:00 to 18:00.
Bo'ness Library
Event date: October 1st, 2026 from 15:00 to 18:00.
Denny Library
Event date: October 26th, 2026 from 16:00 to 19:00.
Larbert Library
1 registrant
Phases
Visitor Levy Scheme: Early Engagement Survey
Falkirk Council is exploring the potential for a Visitor Levy in the Falkirk area. The process is expected to take around two years and will include several steps to gather views and evidence before any decision is made:
- Early engagement – Collecting initial views from residents, businesses, visitors, and other stakeholders.
- Draft proposal – Developing a potential scheme based on feedback and local priorities.
- Impact assessments – Carrying out economic, equality, and other assessments to understand potential effects.
- Formal consultation – Seeking wider feedback on the draft scheme from the community and tourism sector.
- Council decision – Reviewing all evidence and consultation feedback before Councillors decide whether to proceed with a Visitor Levy Scheme.
- Implementation – If approved, setting up the scheme, including administrative arrangements for collection and use of funds. The implementation process is expected to take around 18 months before the levy could take effect.
At all stages, the Council will work closely with local communities, tourism businesses, and organisations to ensure any proposals reflect local priorities and needs.
Contact:
If you have any queries you can contact us at visitorlevy@falkirk.gov.uk