Hoteliers in Aberdeen have backed proposals which could mean they pay a “tourism tax” towards regenerating the city.
The Press and Journal yesterday revealed the Labour-led administration’s proposals to raise more money for the Granite City.
Included in the council’s plans are a levy which would be paid by hoteliers, and ring-fenced for culture projects to encourage more visitors.
Similar schemes are in place in popular European destinations such as Rome and Barcelona.
Last night, the vice-chairman of the Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels Association (ACSHA) said the organisation would be supportive of working together with the city council.
Andrew Martin, who is director of the Scottish Centre for Tourism at the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, said: “No one wants to give up more money and in the current climate we have got to be sensitive to that.
“But this is the time that we have got to collectively up our game and look to invest in our future.”
But Mr Martin has said any levy system would have to be transparent in terms of where the cash was invested.
Finance convener Willie Young has also called for control over air passenger duty, which would be used to fund a new multimillion-pound link between Aberdeen International Airport and the city.
And the administration also want increased powers over business rates.
Meanwhile, Aberdeen Inspired say they would welcome discussions on the “tourism tax” plans.
A spokeswoman said: “Aberdeen Inspired is willing to look at any proposals which could result in investment being made in the city, while also listening to our levy payers in the hotel sector and representing their views.
“We work closely with local businesses including a number of hotels within the city centre and it is our aim to continue to be an effective voice for them on all city centre matters.”
