ECONOMY BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 2024

The Economy Bulletin brings you Scottish Government news and information to ensure you are up to date with the latest policy developments, requests for action and consultations where your views are being sought to help shape future initiatives.

Short Term Lets Licensing
An amendment to the short-term lets licensing scheme has been passed.

Those wishing to build new short-term let accommodation may apply for a provisional license before construction is complete, and licence holders can apply to transfer their licence (e.g. to a new owner if the accommodation is sold). The number of temporary exemption periods has also risen from one to three per calendar year.

These changes take effect from 30 August and more information can be found here.

The Government has also published an update on the implementation of short-term licensing which provides early indications that short-term licensing in Scotland is leading to improved safety and quality standards, greater transparency, and increased opportunities for community involvement in local decision making.

A new trading relationship with the EU
The advantages to Scotland of a comprehensive veterinary and SPS agreement between the UK and the EU and how we can work together to achieve that have been set-out in a new Scottish Government paper.

The publication underlines how such an agreement would reduce barriers to trade with the European Union, creating better conditions for business growth, job creation and biosecurity.

You can read the paper here.

Digital Connectivity Update
Newbuild housing developments in Scotland will have better access to the internet as a result of new legislation to ensure that new build housing developments in Scotland are future proofed with gigabit-capable digital connectivity.

The legislation is anticipated to take effect from 1st January 2025 and complements the work of the R100 digital infrastructure programme which has delivered more than 61,000 connections to homes and businesses across Scotland to date.

Access to fast and reliable broadband unlocks new ways for businesses to innovate and thrive and is a key building block in transforming the economy.

Businesses can learn more about the programme in a new video here.

Have your say - requests for engagement and action

Single-Use Coffee Cups
Businesses are being asked for their views on a minimum charge for single-use cups to promote responsible consumption.

The possible introduction of a 25p charge would apply to all single-use cups when a drink is bought, regardless of material. Exemptions would apply for specific locations, such as schools and hospitals.

The consultation runs until 14 November.

Business Gateway Survey
Business Gateway is looking for participants to complete a short survey regarding the challenges and opportunities currently affecting their business.

By taking part you'll help provide a better understanding of the key issues and opportunities within the business community and help inform future business support across Scotland.

The survey is quick and confidential, and your feedback will help shape future discussions and decisions that could benefit your business and others.

You can take part in the survey here.