Tourist tax will allow us to invest locally says Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham
England’s mayors will be able to invest in transport, infrastructure, and the visitor economy through a new levy on overnight stays.
The fee would apply to visitors’ overnight trips, and it would be up to mayors and other local leaders to introduce a modest charge if it's right for their area.
The move would ensure UK mayors have the same powers as their counterparts in cities like New York, Paris and Milan, where charges on short-term trips are already commonplace.
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Steve Reed said: “Tourists travel from near and far to visit England’s brilliant cities and regions.
“We’re giving our mayors powers to harness this and put more money into local priorities, so they can keep driving growth and investing in these communities for years to come.”
Under plans set out today, any new levy would apply to visitors at accommodation providers including hotels, holiday lets, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses.
Money raised could then help fund local projects that improve communities and enhance tourists’ experiences, that could potentially help attract more visitors – without needing approval from central government.
Businesses, communities and others with an interest in the measure can have their say on how it should work, with a consultation running for 12 weeks.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “It’s great news that the Government is committing to giving regional mayors the powers to introduce a visitor levy – a measure we have long called for. Greater Manchester already has a thriving visitor economy, and a visitor levy will help us sustain good growth over the next decade.
“I’m proud that nearly two million people from all over the world choose to visit Greater Manchester every year. The money they spend contributes about £9 billion annually to our economy, supporting over 100,000 jobs. The levy will allow us to invest in the infrastructure these visitors need, like keeping our streets clean and enhancing our public transport system through later running buses and trams, making sure every experience is a positive and memorable one.”