North Somerset Council is reconsidering the introduction of a tourist tax in popular towns like Weston-super-Mare following a recent announcement from the government. Local Government Secretary Steve Reed outlined that mayors will soon have the authority to impose charges on overnight stays where appropriate, with the goal of reinvesting funds into transport, infrastructure, and the local visitor economy.
Although the idea of a tourist tax has been debated for years, this is the first time most local authorities have been granted the power to implement one. Earlier this year, volunteer litter pickers in Weston-super-Mare advocated for such a levy to help maintain the town’s cleanliness. At the time, North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell expressed skepticism, calling it “not the right answer.” However, with council finances under significant strain, he is now open to reviewing detailed proposals on how a tourist tax might work.
“Our visitor economy is worth nearly £200 million annually and employs many local residents, making it a vital sector,” said Bell. He voiced concerns about the UK tourism industry operating at a disadvantage due to high VAT rates—20% compared to 5% in many European destinations. Bell emphasized the need to avoid exacerbating this pricing issue but also acknowledged that a well-structured tourism tax could help relieve financial pressures on local government and improve services for both visitors and residents.
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North Somerset Council currently faces a £25 million budget shortfall largely driven by rising social care costs and increased demand. Discussions with the government about exceptional financial support are underway, which could result in a council tax increase exceeding five percent.
Reed’s policy announcement confirmed that the power to implement a tourist tax will rest with metro mayors. While North Somerset does not currently have a metro mayor, it is in the process of joining the West of England Combined Authority. A membership proposal is being developed with consultation planned.
West of England Mayor Helen Godwin highlighted the region’s tourism value, which reached a record £2.7 billion last year. She indicated that an overnight visitor levy, common in other regions, could provide essential funding to enhance transport and support tourism businesses and workers.
Weston-super-Mare, a historic Victorian seaside resort, has seen a decline in tourism over recent decades but continues to attract visitors with its beach and iconic attractions such as the Grand Pier. Efforts are underway to revitalize the area, including restoring Birnbeck Pier with funding from the Levelling Up Fund and plans to transform the Tropicana lido into a significant cultural venue.
North Somerset also encompasses the towns of Clevedon, Portishead, and Nailsea, as well as Bristol Airport—all important to the area’s economy and visitor appeal.