Conservative councillors in Somerset have faced criticism for allegedly “misleading” residents about a proposed “holiday tax” following government consultations on visitor levies. The UK government has explored enabling certain local authorities to charge additional taxes on overnight stays to fund community projects.
At a full council meeting in Bridgwater on May 20, the Conservative opposition sought clarity, emphasizing local businesses’ concerns about the potential tax. However, the ruling Liberal Democrat administration amended and subsequently led to the withdrawal of the original motion, cautioning all councillors against statements that could harm Somerset’s economy and reputation.
The idea of visitor levies originated in a government consultation from November 2025 to February 2026, proposing that strategic mayoral authorities could impose charges on overnight stays in hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and holiday lets. This would align England with Scotland, Wales, and multiple European countries, where such levies support local projects. However, Somerset Council lacks the mayoral status needed to implement such a tax.
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Council leader Bill Revans clarified, “There are no powers that this council has to levy a holiday tax. This proposal is strictly for strategic mayoral and foundation authorities, not Somerset.” Under the council’s constitution, motions must relate to the council’s direct responsibilities or actions it can directly influence, such as contacting government officials, rather than preemptively setting policy on matters currently beyond its control.
Though Somerset is exploring the possibility of forming a combined authority with Dorset and Wiltshire, this has yet to materialize or receive government approval, meaning related powers remain unavailable to Somerset Council.
Conservative Councillor Bob Filmer introduced a motion urging the council to reject any holiday tax proposals, call on MPs to support the visitor economy, and work with local stakeholders to promote Somerset as an attractive, affordable tourist destination. He cited concerns from family-run businesses facing rising costs and the damaging effects an added tax could have on jobs and investment.
The Liberal Democrats countered with an amendment that refocused the motion on assessing tourism’s impact with neighboring councils, reaffirming the council’s lack of legal powers to impose such a tax, and urging representatives to avoid misleading statements that could harm the local economy. Viewing this as a complete rewrite undermining the original intent, Councillor Filmer withdrew the motion, ending any substantive debate.
The episode highlights both the complexities of local governance and the importance of accurate public communication regarding policy powers and proposals—especially on economic issues affecting local communities.