The Scottish Tourism Forum (STF) has warned that new water regulations could land the country’s hospitality and tourism industry with a bill of £15.7m.
Under the terms of new European regulations, which come into effect in March 2006, all businesses supplying drinking water will have to undergo annual water quality audits.
The new rules mean businesses will have to fork out £630 for an initial visit from their local authority, with annual fees set at a similar level. Risk assessments will also have to be carried out.
The STF calculates that the industry will be hit with a bill of £2m for the initial water tests alone.
In addition, the forum believes between 24% and 58% of premises will fail to meet the new guidelines, with an estimated average correction cost of £1,150.
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