Concerns have been raised about Somerset Council declining to rule out the possibility of a “tourist tax” being introduced in the future.
At the latest Somerset Council meeting, Brent division councillor Bob Filmer highlighted the importance of tourism to the Burnham-On-Sea, Brean and Berrow area, where many businesses rely heavily on visitors throughout the year.
He pointed to the large number of holiday parks, accommodation providers and small independent traders that support the local economy, warning that many are already facing rising costs and financial pressures.
Cllr Filmer asked the council’s Executive to give a clear assurance that Somerset would not introduce a levy on overnight stays. In response, the administration confirmed that the authority does not currently have the power to introduce such a charge.
However, they stopped short of ruling it out in the future, noting that potential changes linked to Government proposals and devolution could alter the situation. This leaves open the possibility that a future authority in Somerset could consider a visitor levy.
Cllr Filmer says: “Our coastal communities depend on tourism. In places like Brean and Berrow, local businesses rely on visitors choosing Somerset as a place to stay, eat and spend their money.”
“Many of these businesses are family-run and already dealing with rising costs. The idea of adding extra charges for visitors will be a real concern.”
“I asked for a clear assurance that Somerset would not introduce a tourist tax, but that reassurance was not given. That uncertainty is not helpful for businesses trying to plan ahead.”
The Government is considering allowing mayors and other local leaders across England to introduce a “modest” tourist tax, or visitor levy, to raise revenue, as reported here.
A Government spokesperson said: “We’re giving them powers to harness this and put more money into local priorities, so they can keep driving growth and investment in the economy, supporting thriving communities.”
“We expect any new charges to be modest and in line with other countries, and it is for them to consider the right level for their area.”
A version of the measure is already in place in some English cities.
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Holiday parks in Burnham-On-Sea and Brean
