Consultation to start on Highland tourist tax

Highland Council wants visitors to contribute towards local infrastructure

Highland Council is going to start a consultation on plans to introduce a tourist tax in the region.

Under the proposal visitors would have to pay an extra 5% levy on the cost of accommodation.

Officials estimate the move would raise at least £10m a year which could be spent on improvements to local infrastructure.

Tourism businesses have warned that the visitor levy has the potential to discourage people from coming to the Highlands if not implemented carefully.

Highland councillors on the economy and infrastructure committee have given their approval for a three-month consultation.

It is due to begin on Friday.