Tourist tax likely in Bath and Bristol so visitors 'contribute'
Local authorities in Bath and Bristol are considering a new tourist tax on overnight stays to help fund public infrastructure. While officials argue visitors should contribute to city maintenance, hospitality industry leaders warn the levy could harm local tourism competitiveness.
Why it matters
Reflects the growing debate over balancing tourism revenue with the economic burden on local hospitality businesses.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, A tax on overnight stays in Bristol and Bath is likely to come into effect
A new tourist tax for two cities is likely to come into effect, as a council leader says tourists "need to contribute".
Under new government plans, regional mayors will have the power to introduce a tax on overnight accommodation stays in places like Bristol and Bath.
Helen Godwin, mayor of the West of England Combined Authority (Weca), said she was in favour of the scheme, with hopes the money could be reinvested into improving transport. But hospitality leaders fear it could drive off customers.
The leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, councillor Kevin Guy, said: "There are five million visitors every year to the city of Bath alone, and they have a huge impact on the public realm."
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in