Residents to be ‘at heart’ of capital’s tourism strategy

Edinburgh city centre residents are to be put at the heart of a new tourism strategy for the capital amid fears Airbnb properties and overcrowding are affecting people’s day-today lives.

The city council is set to outline its priorities to manage tourism in the Capital following concerns its agenda does not align with some corners of the tourism industry.

A 2030 tourism strategy will be drawn up and published at the Edinburgh Tourism Action Group conference next year.

But fears have been raised by members of the council’s housing and economy committee that a balance will have to be struck to ensure residents can continue to enjoy living in the city amid a growing tourism industry. In the city centre, there are now more homes available as Airbnbstyle short-term lets than for private rented housing.

Housing and economy convener, Cllr Kate Campbell, said: “Tourism has a signifi- cant impact on our city. There are many positives in terms of investment, jobs, and wider economic impact.

“But there are also challenges, particularly the increasing problem of short-term lets, overcrowding at key locations, demand for hotel sites, and a feeling among some that the needs of residents are coming second to those of visitors.”