Highlands business leaders have warned that a visitor levy across the region will have “significant negative consequences” for tourism.

In a joint statement, the Inverness, Lochaber and Caithness chambers of commerce and the Cairngorms Business Partnership have called on the Scottish Government and Highland council to pause its plans to impose a 5% tariff on overnight stays.

They said they “share the deep concerns expressed by the Scottish Tourism Alliance” that there is a risk that the levy would deter visitors and have a damaging effect on the tourism trade.

Instead, they want the authorities to explore “a simpler, fixed-fee model that is more manageable for businesses and less burdensome for visitors.”

The statement adds: “We believe that a well-considered and carefully implemented approach to tourism development is crucial for the long-term success of the Highlands.

“Therefore, we urge caution and a thorough review of the proposed visitor levy before any decisions are made.”

Councillors in Argyll and Bute will discuss the levy proposal today. The earliest it could be imposed is 2027.