The events come in a number of formats, including face-to-face informal drop-in sessions held in libraries and other civic spaces, to make it as convenient for people as possible to get involved and have their say.

The Highland Council convener, Councillor Bill Lobban said: “We are getting feedback from businesses in the tourism sector but we also need to hear the voices of individual members of the public. It is very important that the consultation is as encompassing as possible and all voices are heard.

“We have set up these sessions in different formats at different times of day, to make it as easy as possible for people to have their say. We have also put together helpful FAQs on our website which explain aspects of the the proposal and are a good starting point for anyone wanting to find out more before filling in the online consultation document.”

The Public Library Community Drop-in Events will be an informal in-person drop-in opportunity to chat with council staff on the proposed Visitor Levy Scheme and ask questions about the proposal or the consultation process. Public access computers will also be available on-site for members of the public to fill in the online consultation document, if required.

• Nairn Library – 7 February 2025, 10:30-12:30
• Thurso Library – 18 February 2025, 14:00-19:30 (As part of a place-based planning event)
• Fortrose Community Library – 19 February 2025, 10:00-12:00
• Fort William Library – 26 February 2025, 11:00-13:00
• Ullapool Community Library – 27 February 2025, 11:00 – 13:00
• Brora Library – 28 February 2025, 10:30 – 12:30

The community Drop-in Events are as follows:

• Inverness Archive Centre – 11 February 2025, 13:00 – 15:00
• Wick (Pulteney Centre) - 12 February 2025, 10:30 – 15:30 (As part of a place-based planning event)
• Kingussie Courthouse – 13 February 2025, 1:30-3:00
• Kyle of Lochalsh Service Point – 20 February 2025, 11:00 – 13:00

They too will provide an informal in-person drop-in opportunity for members of the public to chat with council staff on the proposed Visitor Levy Scheme and ask questions about the proposal or the consultation process.

As well as these face-to-face events, two Community Webinars will take place. These will all begin with a formal online presentation from council staff on the proposed Visitor Levy Scheme followed by the opportunity to ask questions about the proposal or the consultation process.

• 25 February 2025, 16:00-17:00
• 13 March 2025, 11:00-12:00

The council is asking people to regularly check the Visitor Levy website as further details and additional venues will be confirmed and registration links to online events will be published.

In addition to these public engagement events, the council will be hosting a Webinar specifically for Community Council members and will be taking part in a series of Chambers of Commerce Business Events.

Councillor Lobban added: “We want the consultation to be as inclusive as possible, ensuring that it fairly and accurately captures opinion and feedback from across all communities. This is why I encourage people to take up this opportunity to drop-in and have an informal chat with staff on the proposals and then pass on their views via the on-line consultation.”

The consultation runs up until 31 March 2025. In addition to the online survey, there is a phoneline to request a paper copy of the consultation 01349 781020 and a dedicated email address to answer any queries and provide support: visitorlevyconsultation@highland.gov.uk.