The first coastal ‘tourist tax’ in the UK is set to be introduced in Dorset, targeting visitors to Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole from July 1st.
“British resorts from Margate to St Ives and Devon are considering European-style tourist taxes that could set a family of four back £140 a week” [Daily Mail]
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There was quite a reaction on the social media of Sidmouth Business Community to Should Sidmouth charge a ‘tourist tax’? And on the original posting from ‘five days before’ [which seems to have gone missing….] the majority of respondents were very much against the notion.
However, looking at the post posing the question on the VGS website – Should Devon charge a ‘tourist tax’? – the call initially came from Malcolm Bell, Chief Executive of Visit Cornwall – and this was followed by a ‘resounding yes’ from the editor of a Devon newspaper.
As always, the VGS does not “just ask the same thing until they get the answer they want” – as the VGS has no ‘agenda’ on this, hidden or otherwise. It’s really all about getting some response to issues [which this clearly did] and to tease out some clear points for and against. This might indeed be a very bad idea for Sidmouth and for East Devon – but good arguments need to be mustered to counter the push from other parts of the West Country.
In the meantime, however, there are other voices in the West Country pushing for this measure, as Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole hotels vote for a ‘Tourist Tax’, as reported by the Rural Services Network:
As reported in the Press, The first coastal ‘tourist tax’ in the UK is set to be introduced in Dorset, targeting visitors to Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole from July 1st. The Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) spearheaded the initiative, with hoteliers voting to impose a £2 levy per room, per night, on guests staying in larger hotels. This measure aims to generate £12 million over the next five years to support and develop local events such as the Bournemouth Air Festival, Arts by the Sea, Poole Christmas Maritime, and Christmas Tree Wonderland.
Rosie Radwell, Chair of the shadow ABID board and representative from Marsham Court Hotel, emphasised the tax’s potential to significantly impact the future of tourism in the area. She acknowledged the importance of collaboration among local accommodation providers and expressed excitement about upcoming projects to boost tourism.
BCP Council has supported this move, viewing it as a crucial step towards creating a more resilient and productive visitor economy. Despite English councils lacking the authority to impose tourist taxes directly, some, like Manchester and Liverpool, have implemented similar measures through legal workarounds.
The additional income from the tourist tax will be vital for enhancing local services, ensuring that popular events and attractions continue to thrive, and providing a better experience for visitors and residents alike. The funds will help sustain and expand cultural and recreational activities, contributing to the overall vibrancy and appeal of the region.
But many are clearly not very happy about this.
As reported by the Mail recently, British resorts from Margate to St Ives and Devon are considering European-style tourist taxes that could set a family of four back £140 a week…compared to £120 for Venice | Daily Mail Online:
But, then, the Herald Express in Exeter suggests why a Devon ‘Tourist Tax’ is an idea worth exploring…
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