Somerset Council has firmly ruled out the introduction of a ‘holiday tax’ on tourists, following concerns raised by Conservative councillors about the potential economic impact.
The Labour government recently held a consultation on granting mayoral strategic authorities in England the power to impose “local overnight visitor levies.” This levy would enable local councils to charge visitors an additional fee for overnight stays, intended to fund local services. The consultation concluded on February 18, and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is currently reviewing the feedback before any formal proposals reach Parliament.
Conservative councillor Bob Filmer, representing the Brent division north of Burnham-on-Sea, voiced strong opposition to the tax during Somerset Council’s executive committee meeting on April 1. He highlighted concerns that the levy—potentially up to five per cent on overnight stays—could result in millions of pounds in extra charges for tourists and threaten thousands of hospitality jobs by 2030.
“Somerset hosts numerous family-run tourism businesses, from caravan parks in Berrow and Brean to attractions like Brean Theme Park,” said Filmer. “These businesses already face rising taxes, staff costs, and overheads. An additional holiday tax would place unacceptable burdens on them.”
In response, Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities, council housing, culture, equalities, and diversity, reassured members that Somerset Council currently has no authority or plans to introduce such a tax. She explained that Somerset is not part of the regions covered by mayoral strategic authorities eligible to impose this levy, and any future changes would depend on government decisions related to regional devolution.
“Tourism is one of Somerset’s key economic pillars,” Smith-Roberts stated. “We recognize its vital importance and remain committed to supporting this sector without imposing new visitor taxes.”
Filmer concluded by vowing to maintain pressure on the council to protect the tourism industry: “This sector supports thousands of jobs and bolsters the local economy. Imposing new charges on visitors risks making Somerset less competitive and should not be considered.”