“As an organisation representing many rural businesses with interests in a variety of short-term lets we would like to note our regret that this consultation continues to be progressed at a time when the industry is reeling from the devastating impacts of Covid-19.
“The Scottish hospitality industry in particular has been severely impacted due to the lack of visitors during the preceding 18 months. At a time when those contributing to the vital tourism industry in Scotland should be receiving further sustained support from the Scottish Government, the sector finds itself having the additional burden of attempting to unravel the possible implications of these far-reaching proposals, including the closure of reputable and long-established businesses. The proposed licensing scheme is contrary to Scottish Government public messaging that Scotland offers and provides a welcoming hospitality industry, when these measures will potentially, according to a recent survey of Association of Scottish Self Caterers (ASSC) members, see the closure of up to 49% of holiday self-catering accommodation units.”
Read the full response: Short-Term Lets Consultation Response