Isles authorities award visitor levy scheme feasibility contract

Following a successful competitive tendering process, Orkney Islands Council, Shetland Islands Council and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar have appointed a consultant to investigate the feasibility of a visitor levy scheme for each of the island's authorities. 

Urban Foresight has been appointed, with their team of local consultants set to begin the work this week. 

Orkney Islands Council Leader, Heather Woodbridge, said: “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. It is anticipated that work will be underway as soon as possible and the findings will be presented to Councillors in due course.” 

In September 2024, Orkney Islands Council committed to investigate the feasibility of a visitor levy scheme for Orkney when it was also recognised that there could be potential savings through joint working with other island authorities.  

A formal engagement process with local communities, tourism businesses and organisations and other stakeholders will take place to understand potential impacts and help shape the design of a future scheme if progressed. Details will be publicised as soon as the consultation programme has been finalised. 

A cost-benefit analysis – measuring the benefits of a scheme versus the associated costs – will also be undertaken. The findings of the feasibility investigations will then be presented to Councillors to inform a decision on whether to follow other councils in introducing a visitor levy.

To find out more head over to the Council's Visitor Levy webpage.