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Stirling Council and Stirling Enterprise Park (STEP) have announced the creation of a dedicated Visitor Levy Project Implementation Lead role to support accommodation providers and tourism businesses as they prepare for the introduction of the Stirling Visitor Levy in June 2027.
The new position, currently being recruited, is a significant investment in business readiness and will provide practical, hands-on support to businesses across the Stirlingshire area, helping ensure they are fully prepared for the implementation of the levy and minimising administrative burden.
Working within STEP’s business support team, the specialist role will act as a key link between Stirling Council and the local tourism sector, providing advice, training and technical guidance on the new levy arrangements, including registration, collection processes, exemptions and reporting requirements.
The Stirling visitor levy is scheduled to go live on 14 June 2027 and apply to bookings made from 1 January 2027.
The implementation lead will deliver workshops, webinars and one-to-one business support sessions, while also undertaking visits to accommodation providers throughout the Stirling area, including rural communities, to provide tailored advice and assistance.”
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Susan McGill said: “The introduction of the Visitor Levy is an important milestone that will create new opportunities to invest in and enhance our visitor economy. We recognise that accommodation providers will need clear information, practical guidance and ongoing support as preparations progress.”
“This dedicated implementation role demonstrates our commitment to working alongside businesses throughout the process. The successful candidate will provide a single point of contact for accommodation providers, helping them understand what is required, navigate new systems and ensure they are fully prepared well ahead of the launch date.”
“Our message to businesses is simple: support will be available, concerns will be listened to, and we will continue to work together to ensure a smooth and successful implementation.”
David Miller, Chief Executive of STEP, said: “We have a long history of helping businesses adapt to change and seize new opportunities. We are delighted to be working with Stirling Council to deliver this important support programme for the tourism and hospitality sector.
“The Visitor Levy Project Implementation Lead will provide practical, on-the-ground assistance to accommodation providers of all sizes, from independent operators in rural communities to larger establishments in Stirling city and surrounding areas.
“The role is designed to give businesses confidence. Whether they need support understanding the legislation, using the collection platform, communicating with visitors or integrating levy processes into existing systems, there will be expert help available throughout the journey.”
The implementation lead will be responsible for developing and delivering a comprehensive business engagement programme, including:
• One-to-one support for accommodation providers;
• Information sessions and workshops across the Stirling region;
• Guidance on registration, collection and remittance processes;
• Advice on customer communications and booking systems;
• Development of FAQs, guidance materials and online resources;
• Ongoing feedback and liaison between businesses and Stirling Council.
The role will also help identify any emerging issues or barriers to implementation, ensuring that businesses’ experiences and feedback continue to inform the rollout of the Visitor Levy.
Further information on business engagement activities and support opportunities will be shared as the implementation programme develops.
