First meeting of Visitor Levy Forum scheduled as implementation plans progress
Published 02 June 2026
The first meeting of the West Dunbartonshire Visitor Levy Forum will take place this month as plans progress for implementation of the scheme.
At the end of last year, the Council formally advised the Scottish Government of its intention to introduce a Visitor Levy scheme in the area.
The scheme is estimated to raise £1.7million in its first year, with funding to be reinvested in local communities to enhance facilities and services, directly benefitting those who live and work in West Dunbartonshire.
In November 2025, members of the Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development committee voted in favour of introducing the 5% fee which will apply to overnight stays in eligible accommodation such as hotels, guest houses, self-catering units, caravan parks and campsites.
It follows two consultations on the matter, alongside public drop in events and engagement sessions focused on gathering the views of the tourism industry. Feedback was also sought from external organisations like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, Visit Scotland, the Association of Scotland’s Self-caterers, Love Loch Lomond, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses.
All feedback received was considered alongside evidence of how a levy could benefit the area before a decision was made. Following notification to the Scottish Government, the Council proceeded to establish a Visitor Levy Forum, bringing together accommodation providers, tourism organisations, community representatives, Council officers and elected members to advise on the scheme.
Audrey Calder, Marketing and Events Manager at Loch Lomond Shores, has been appointed chair of the forum.
A new local tourism strategy will be developed alongside the introduction of the levy and will be available to the Council when considering future investment decisions.
Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor David McBride, said: “Introducing a Visitor Levy provides a sustainable way to address the impact of visitors on the local communities. The proposed charges are in line with what many of us pay when we travel abroad. This income will allow us to improve facilities, protect our environment and ensure visitors and locals alike continue to enjoy all that West Dunbartonshire has to offer.”
Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, said: “We value all feedback received as part of our extensive consultation on this matter, and this was considered in our decision-making process alongside all other evidence.
“We are confident its introduction in 2027 will support the long-term sustainability of our area and its communities.”
Economic forecasting predicts that the levy will deliver substantial benefits for the area, generating an estimated £8.5million over five years to sustain and support services and facilities in West Dunbartonshire.