South West Coastal Town Faces Backlash Over New 'Tourist Tax' Impacting Tourism Monday, May 19, 2025 salcombe tourism parking secondhomes southhams business residents economy council tax Residents and business owners in Salcombe, affectionately known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea,’ are growing increasingly concerned over recent measures by South Hams District Council that seem to target tourism—and threaten … Read More
Tourist Tax Proposals in Bath Face Backlash as Visitors Seen as City's Lifeblood Saturday, May 10, 2025 tourism bath tax visitors economy sustainability residents overcrowding heritage management Bath, renowned for its historic charm and cultural heritage, prepares for another influx of tourists this summer after being named the most overcrowded tourist city in the UK. In light of rising visitor numbers, discussions … Read More
Candidates Clash Over Tourist Tax and Housing at WECA Mayor Hustings Monday, April 21, 2025 weca mayor candidates clash tourism tax housing hustings election debate housing crisis short-term lets regulation airbnb tax hotels bristol infrastructure connectivity regional plan constituent councils private equity economic growth The candidates vying to be the next West of England Metro Mayor engaged in a lively debate over the implementation of a tourist tax and housing issues at a recent hustings event in Bath. With the election scheduled for May 1 … Read More
Somerset Council Approves 'Astronomical' 7.5% Council Tax Hike Thursday, March 6, 2025 somerset council tax hike budget government financial services social care revenue Somerset Council has approved a significant council tax increase of 7.5%, following special permission granted by the government to exceed the normal tax limit. Despite the hike, over 550 council staff members are set to be … Read More
Somerset Council Proposes Changes to Council Tax Reduction Scheme Monday, July 29, 2024 somerset council tax reduction scheme consultation residents savings financial support Somerset Council is considering changes to its council tax reduction scheme in an effort to save over £6m, with the potential for cuts to support for residents effective from April 2025. Currently, the council provides … Read More
Struggling Somerset Public Services Face Bleak Future as Council Tries to Avoid Bankruptcy Friday, February 9, 2024 somerset public services council budget bankruptcy local authority financial difficulties funding services tax local government austerity The future looks bleak for Somerset residents as the local council tries to avoid effective bankruptcy while grappling with a significant budget gap. Somerset Council recently proposed measures to address a shortfall of … Read More