Mixed reaction to short term lets licence scheme

There has been a mixed reaction to news from the Scottish Government that providers of self-catering accommodation will soon need to apply for a licence.

Local authorities will be required to establish a shortterm lets licensing scheme by October 1 and existing hosts and operators will have until April 1 2023 to apply for a licence. Fees will be set by local authorities and are estimated to be in the range of between £214 and £436 to cover a three-year licence.

Kate Forbes, cabinet secretary for finance and the economy, and MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, commented: ‘The welcome economic boost from a thriving tourism sector has, in some cases, created tensions with communities. The new regulations aim to strike a balance in our communities, through regulation.’

However, the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers chief executive, Fiona Campbell, took a different view: ‘Operators in Lochaber and the Small Isles, and other areas with a vibrant tourism industry, will be among the hardest hit and the effects will ripple throughout the local economy from this ill-conceived, onerous and urban-focused legislation.’

Highlands and Islands Conservative MSPs Donald Cameron and Jamie Halcro Johnston have also slammed the impending legislation.

Mr Halcro Johnston said: ‘This is a worrying development which will only add to the burden faced by local businesses.’

Mr Cameron added: ‘Once again, no account is being made of the severe and disproportionate impact this measure will have on the Highlands and Islands.

‘The result of this will be more bureaucracy for small businesses across my region, especially those involved in self-catering.

‘After the last two years they have endured, some may just give up, with all the consequences that will have for jobs and livelihoods.'