(How will Bath’s tourist economy benefit?)
Bath is a step closer to reaping some benefit from the introduction of a tourist tax. Something we have been used to paying in mainland Europe and elsewhere.
The ‘Visitor Levy Bill’ was introduced to Parliament yesterday. If successful, the government says it will continue to protect lower-cost family breaks by requiring the levy to be charged as a percentage rate of the cost of accommodation, rather than as a flat fee, meaning those choosing cheaper accommodation will pay less.
Ten mayors have also committed that any levy introduced in their areas would be no higher than 5%, providing certainty for visitors and businesses while preserving local choice.
The Housing Minister, Angela Rayner, MP, said: ‘This is about giving mayors and local leaders the choice to invest back into what matters most to local people, while protecting lower-cost stays and making sure businesses have their say.’
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said:
“Tens of millions of visitors spend billions of pounds in the West of England each year, brought here by amazing attractions like the Roman Baths, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier, and Bristol Zoo Project. And there’s much more on the way for our exciting region, particularly with the Aviva Arena opening in a few years’ time.
“The overnight visitor levy will allow us to invest more money raised here right back into the West, like other places already do around the world. That could well mean transport and tourism improvements, helping communities to see and feel a difference from devolution.”
All good news, but B&NES, our local authority, wants to know whether the WECA Mayor will distribute money raised rather than letting our council collect and spend its own levy.
