Visitors staying overnight in the East Midlands could face an accommodation levy under Government plans welcomed by Mayor Claire Ward.
The Government published its consultation response today, 10 September, on proposed powers allowing mayors in England to introduce a local levy on overnight stays. The decision on whether to introduce a charge would be made locally.
No East Midlands scheme, charge or start date has been announced.
The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) said any local proposals would be developed with businesses, partners and other stakeholders, with money raised supporting the visitor economy, transport and infrastructure.
The authority’s release identifies hotels, guest houses, holiday lets, B&Bs and campsites among the types of commercial accommodation covered by the proposed levy.
Mayor Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands is an incredible place to visit, and people travel from miles away to enjoy the world-class sport and culture, beautiful countryside, thriving cities, market towns and historic places.”
“But none of these things – whether it is the natural beauty of the Peak District, our heritage buildings, or world class hospitality – will continue to attract visitors and improve their offer if we do not invest into them. The overnight visitor levy is a way that we can sustain investment – year after year – in the places and experiences that people will return to.”
“Having seen this work in other places around the world, I am confident that we can make it work here. But to ensure that happens, we will work with partners, businesses and stakeholders to understand what is right for our region, how a levy could be designed to match that, and how any money raised could have the greatest impact.”
EMCCA has set an ambition to grow the region’s visitor economy by at least £1 billion by 2035.
It said a levy could help fund major events, culture and heritage, public spaces, destination marketing and support for tourism businesses, with the aim of attracting more visitors and encouraging longer stays.
The authority will continue working with the Government and other mayoral authorities as the national policy develops. Any East Midlands proposals would be subject to engagement and considered through EMCCA’s decision-making process.
