Skye is Scotland’s second most popular destination. The data shows that visitor numbers continue to grow each year and now exceed pre-covid levels. It is alarming that a destination like Skye faces the real possibility of not having a body...
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Mini Bite – from Alistair Danter – 15th July – 2023
In Alistair's Mini Bite below you'll find information on Alistair Danter's work as Project Manager for SkyeConnect.
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With our obvious interest in all matters related to travel and hospitality we were intrigued to learn of a new service offered by Japan Airlines where passengers can rent clothes from the airline via an app – from party frocks to business suits – Under the ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ service, Japan Airlines plan to create an environment where ‘travellers can use local options for all aspects of their clothing, food, and accommodation, transforming travel and business trips into more sustainable experiences.’ We look forward to the Citilink version …. With staff on hand as you get off the bus in Somerled square to hand over your wardrobe for your time on Skye …………..Maybe a pair of wellies and Hi viz jackets from Harbro ?!
Short Term Lets Seminar
Slides and a new set of FAQs on STL legislation are available following our online seminar with THC Licencing. Scottish Government updates to guidelines are also now available on request from info@skye-connect.com We have been asked to point out that “The HC presentation contains responses to some frequently asked questions which The Highland Council’s Short-term Let Licensing Team have received. They advise that these responses are for general information and guidance purposes only and they do not constitute legal, planning or any other professional advice – all applicants should seek independent legal advice from their own solicitor as part of their application or on any specific legal points.”
Short Term Let Licenses
Short-term let operators have until the 1st of October to apply for a license. Anyone applying after that date will be considered a new operator and will not be legally entitled to host guests until their license is formally granted. Applications from existing operators submitted before the deadline will be reviewed and provisional licenses will be issued where the paperwork appears to be in order. THC has a gargantuan task ahead as we understand that out of an estimated 10,000 self-catering units in the region as at 10 July 2023, THC had received 2,135 applications for an STL licence. Of these, 303 applications are from new hosts; and 1,832 applications are from existing hosts. At the 10th July 2023, 999 STL licences have been issued.
Visitor Levy Scotland Bill
The Visitor Levy Scotland Bill consultation period has been extended by 2 weeks to 15th Sept. We know that everyone is busy but can we make a plea that as many operators as possible respond to either the ‘quick and easy’ or detailed consultation by the deadline. The easiest way to respond is via this link. More detailed responses can be made here. In the coming weeks we are aiming to collate local business reaction. THC will be discussing the matter at the Economy and Infrastructure Committee meeting on the 17th August.
The Portree Gaelic Choir
The Portree Gaelic choir recently hosted a visit from one of the five Salt Spring Island Choirs – Salt Spring is an island off the coast of British Columbia has a population similar to Skye. It covers an area of 71 square miles and has a significant visitor economy. It was interesting to hear of the island’s issues including; housing problems; too many jobs and not enough bodies; an unreliable ferry service and a creaky infrastructure. It seems we have a lot in common!
Wind Farms
Communities across Skye have really started to engage with the proposal for 144 wind turbines across Skye – some of them 200 metres tall. Some communities have already announced their objections and other have called for a public inquiry. SkyeConnect is planning a survey to determine what impact the landscape change will have on visitor intentions to come back to Skye. This research will help us quantify the potential economic impact of large scale windfarm developments. What we do know is that even a 10% reduction in visitors would have an impact of £26million per year in economic output. Our current thoughts are contained in a “Position Paper” that is available by request from info@skye-connect.com
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