Cruise control: could a £5 ‘entry’ fee help balance Orkney’s needs with tourist demand?

The Guardian
The Guardian
2M ago
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Orkney council leaders propose a £5 tourist levy to address a £647m funding shortfall, aiming to protect local heritage and improve public services. This matters as it seeks to balance tourism demands with community needs.
Cruise control: could a £5 ‘entry’ fee help balance Orkney’s needs with tourist demand?
A What happened
The Orkney Islands council is pushing for a £5 tourist levy to address a significant £647 million shortfall in government funding, exacerbated by the overwhelming number of tourists visiting the islands. With approximately 450,000 visitors each year, the local population of 22,000 is heavily impacted, leading to congestion and strain on public services. The proposed levy would apply to all tourists arriving by boat or air, potentially generating around £2 million annually. The Scottish government is currently reviewing this proposal as part of a wider consultation on tourism levies, which could help fund necessary infrastructure improvements and protect local heritage sites. The initiative aims to ensure that tourism remains sustainable while benefiting both visitors and the local community.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Tourism vs. Local Needs: The influx of tourists is straining local resources and infrastructure.

  • 2

    Potential Revenue Generation: A £5 levy could raise significant funds for community services.

  • 3

    Government Consultation: The Scottish government is considering the levy as part of tourism policy.

Takeaways

The proposed tourist levy in Orkney represents a critical step towards balancing the needs of a booming tourism sector with the preservation of local heritage and community welfare. As discussions progress, the outcome could set a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.

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