Locals weigh in on South Ayrshire’s visitor levy plan, debating its potential impact on tourism and local funding.
South Ayrshire Council thinks about using this tax. The money could improve local facilities and services. This would help both visitors and people who live there. They think a 5% fee could raise £500,000 yearly. This is after paying for the costs to run it.
Not everyone is happy with this idea, though. Some people don’t think now is a good time for it. One local called the tax idea “crazy.” Someone said a tourism tax makes sense if there were things to do.
Another wants an attractive place before adding new taxes. They feel over-tourism isn’t a problem right now. Others see the good a tax could bring. They think it would bring money to the town. This could enhance the tourist economy in the area.
One person says other countries do this already. They think this is a chance for extra funding. The money can go to areas that need it most. Alec Clark says only Edinburgh will add this tax so far.
South Ayrshire wants to know what people think first. They will consider a plan after that. How the money gets spent is really important here. They might form a South Ayrshire Visitor Levy Forum. Locals, businesses, and tourism operators could be part of it. They’d help decide how the funds get used.