Motorhomes and campervans could face new taxes amid plans to stop congestion - ‘It’s only fair!’

Councillor Jérémie Fernandes, representing Elgin City North for the SNP, argued that the vehicles should be included in the recently enacted Visitor Levy legislation.

The proposal comes after residents in the nearby Moray area have raised increasing concerns about congestion on key routes in the region, including the A9, A95, and A96.

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In a recent letter to the Minister for Business and Minister for Employment Investment, Fernandes detailed how a tax could be “transformational” for the Moray and Highlands area.

The letter seen by GB News detailed: “Motorhomes and campervans place a considerable strain on our local infrastructure, including roads, waste disposal facilities and parking areas.

“The increased wear and tear on roads, congestion and the environmental impact presents significant challenges that local authorities must address.”

He continued that the inclusion of motorhomes and campervans in the Tourism Levy would help generate key revenue for the region.

The Transient Visitor Levy, akin to a tourist tax, is currently applied to accommodation such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday cottages.

Under this scheme, visitors pay a set amount to the local authority for each night of their stay, but notably, campervans and motorhomes have been left out of the charges.

Offering a solution to stop the area from being clogged up with vehicles which risks damaging the “natural beauty” of the area, Fernandes suggested introducing a “vignette system”.

The system would see motorhome and campervan users purchase a permit before entering the region which would include the charges and taxes necessary for parking in the area.

Alternatively, the councillor said an app could be developed “allowing visitors to obtain and verify their permits” while also allowing local authorities to easily check which vehicles are adhering to the rules.

The letter added: “These solutions would not only be simple but would also help to ensure compliance and ease the administrative burden.

“I am convinced that incorporating motorhomes and campervans into the Transient Visitor Levy in this manner would significantly enhance the effectiveness of the legislation, ensuring that all who benefit from our beautiful landscapes contribute fairly to the preservation and sustainability of our communities.”

The call for a motorhome levy also follows the wake of recent restrictions in Moray. In July, the council banned overnight stays next to Alice Littler Park, sparking complaints that such measures could deter visitors.

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Despite these concerns, Fernandes maintained that a levy is necessary to improve infrastructure in the region. He argued that this approach would ensure a balanced contribution from all tourists, not just those staying in traditional accommodations.

He said: "It's only fair that we include motorhomes and campervans in the visitor levy. It will ensure that we can reinvest in our roads, parking areas, and waste facilities, ultimately enhancing the experience for both tourists and residents alike."