Urban Foresight to lead feasibility study on visitor levy for Scottish islands councils

Urban Foresight has been appointed to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study on implementing visitor levy schemes to support sustainable tourism and infrastructure development across Scotland’s island communities.  

Commissioned by Orkney Islands Council, Shetland Islands Council, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the study will assess the potential benefits and impacts of such levies, ensuring they align with local needs and aspirations. 

Orkney Islands Council Leader, Heather Woodbridge, expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “We are pleased to have appointed Urban Foresight to investigate the feasibility of a visitor levy scheme for each of the islands authorities, selected from a very high standard of applications made through the tender process.” 

Urban Foresight and its team of local consultants will undertake a formal engagement process with communities, tourism businesses, organisations, and other stakeholders across the islands. The objective will be to understand potential impacts and help shape the design of a future scheme if progressed.  

The findings from this feasibility study will be presented to the respective councils, providing a detailed cost-benefit analysis to inform decisions on the potential implementation of visitor levies.  

Stuart Oliver, Urban Foresight’s Head of Economic Development, commented, “We are delighted to be partnering with these three island councils to explore strategies that balance tourism growth with community well-being and environmental stewardship. Our goal is to provide actionable insights that support sustainable development and enhance the unique appeal of these destinations for both visitors and local residents.” 

Urban Foresight is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure that any proposed visitor levy schemes are tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of each island community. We look forward to contributing to initiatives that enhance the resilience and sustainability of these unique destinations. Contact us at hello@urbanforesight.com to learn more.