A FIFE MSP has urged Fife Council to introduce a visitor levy to fund local services. 

Mark Ruskell, the Scottish Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, believes Fife council should use a visitor levy to raise vital funds for local services, which are often under huge pressure due to tourist numbers. 

It comes after the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill passed the first stage at the Scottish Parliament. It would empower local councils to introduce a visitor levy to hotels and overnight accommodation, similar to schemes already in place across Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

Mr Ruskell said: “I am proud that so many people visit Fife every year, but it puts a strain on local services ranging from public toilets to our bin collections.

“That’s why it is fair to ask tourists to make a small contribution to support our community and ensure that local residents aren't left picking up the bill.

“Visitor levies are already common across Europe and beyond. It is a small charge that will make a big difference. That is why I am urging Fife Council to apply the levy and use the funds to benefit our communities.”

However, Cllr David Ross, Leader of Fife Council, believes that introducing a visitor levy could have a negative effect. 

He said: "Whilst this might be appropriate for somewhere like Edinburgh, it is unlikely that we will introduce it in Fife as it could have a detrimental effect on our tourist industry."