Plan for Edinburgh tourist tax next spring

A tourist tax could be in place in Edinburgh from spring 2018 if a City Deal for the region is given the go-ahead, according to the council leader.

Councils in Fife, the Lothians, and the Borders have joined together to bid for up to £2bn from a scheme aimed at stimulating investment that involves both the UK and Scottish governments.

The deal would grant councils the power to introduce a levy on visitors.

It is likely that the money would be ringfenced for culture and leisure use.

A final decision on the City Deal - similar to those signed in Glasgow and Aberdeen - is expected in March.