Scotland’s tourism sector is expected to reopen on July 15, depending on the progression towards phase 3 of the Scottish government’s lockdown route-map.
Tourism secretary Fergus Ewing has announced the appointment of a new task force that will focus on the tourism sector’s recovery needs. Moreover, they will also look at the actions being taken by the UK Government and the development of a new domestic visitor marketing campaign.
The taskforce is in addition to the £2.3 billion package of support for businesses across Scotland for measures specific to the tourism and hospitality industry such as a full year’s non-domestic rates relief and specific grant schemes.
Ewing said, “The pandemic has presented challenges across the entirety of the Scottish economy, but it is clear there are exceptional circumstances facing this sector that must be recognised.
“We have acted as quickly as we can to address the significant financial challenges faced by businesses and provide a comprehensive package of support. We are also pushing the UK Government to do more, including a review of VAT rates and to consider extensions to schemes such as the coronavirus job retention scheme.”
Destination and businesses across Scottish tourism are set to receive a share from a £500,000 support package offered by VisitScotland, the national tourism organisation of the country.
Around 81 membership organisations have been successful in applying for the support fund, which will help them survive and prepare for the market resumption.
