North Somerset Council may reconsider introducing a tourist tax in popular destinations like Weston-super-Mare. Local government secretary Steve Reed announced on November 25 that mayors will soon have the authority to impose a charge on overnight stays, allowing areas to reinvest revenue into transport, infrastructure, and the visitor economy.
This marks the first time many local councils can implement such a tax, an idea long discussed but rarely enacted. Earlier this year, volunteer litter pickers in Weston-super-Mare advocated for a tourist tax to fund town maintenance and cleanliness. At that time, North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell expressed skepticism, calling it not the “right answer.” However, facing severe financial pressures, he is now open to reviewing the proposal in detail.
“Our visitor economy is worth nearly £200 million annually and supports a large local workforce,” Bell said. “While the UK tourism sector already faces a disadvantage due to high VAT—20%, compared to 5% in much of Europe—we must balance pricing with adequate funding for local services. If a tourist tax can help bolster our stretched resources and improve services for both residents and visitors, I look forward to exploring the options.”
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North Somerset Council grapples with a £25 million funding shortfall for the next financial year, primarily driven by rising social care costs. Discussions with the government around exceptional financial support are ongoing, potentially involving council tax increases above five percent.
Reed’s announcement clarifies that authority to introduce tourist taxes will lie with metro mayors. North Somerset does not currently have a metro mayor but is in the process of joining the West of England Combined Authority. Councillors voted in September to start developing and consulting on this new membership.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority, emphasized the region’s tourism significance: “Tourism is now worth a record £2.7 billion to the West’s economy and is central to our Growth Strategy. These new powers represent a vote of confidence, allowing us to manage our future. Revenues from a visitor levy—something residents here are accustomed to paying when traveling—could greatly support local businesses and enhance transport services.”
Weston-super-Mare, a classic Victorian seaside resort, has faced declining tourism over recent decades due to the rise of affordable international holidays. Nevertheless, attractions like its expansive beach and the Grand Pier continue to draw visitors. North Somerset Council is actively restoring nearby landmarks such as Birnbeck Pier, funded by the Levelling Up Fund and other sources. Additionally, the Tropicana is being redeveloped into a nationally significant cultural venue for arts and entertainment.
The council’s jurisdiction also includes the towns of Clevedon, Portishead, and Nailsea, along with Bristol Airport, highlighting the wider region’s potential to benefit from tourism-related initiatives.