Several cities across the UK are working on plans to introduce a tourism tax.
Two of England's most popular seaside destinations are set to introduce a new charge for visitors, according to reports.
The local council is considering raising parking fees for tourists visiting these coastal hotspots.
South Hams District Council has sparked controversy with its decision to introduce a two-tier parking system. Following intense debate, it has been decided that visitors will now face higher parking charges.
While parking fees will increase across the district, locals will have the option to apply for a £5 permit, allowing them to receive a discount each time they park.
The Salcombe and Dartmouth council hopes the new charges will help strengthen its finances as government funding continues to decline. However, some worry it could reduce visitor spending, with Councillor Nicky Hopwood calling the move a "tourism tax."
Council leader Julian Brazil responded by saying: "They have a tourism tax on the Continent, but people still go there!"
Despite some opposition, the majority supported the decision, with plans in place to assess its impact in the future. Councillor John Birch warned against rejecting this much-needed source of income, calling the situation an "all-out attack" on the council’s budget.
Cllr Hopwood, however, raised concerns about the effect on local businesses. She also criticised the idea that South Hams residents should have to pay £5 for a permit to access parking discounts, calling the policy "nonsensical."
Cllr Brazil defended the changes, saying: "It’s a small increase, and we think it’s only fair that visitors who come here and use our services should contribute towards them."
Other parts of the UK are also working on similar tourism charges.
In Edinburgh, the city council has approved a Transient Visitor Levy (TVL), which is expected to be introduced soon. This will likely charge visitors an additional 2-4% per night on accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and Airbnb stays.
Meanwhile, cities like London, Bath, and Oxford have also discussed introducing a tourism levy to support infrastructure and manage high visitor numbers, though no official charges have been put in place yet.
A third reviewer agreed, saying: "This place is absolutely beautiful. We had a fantastic time. Just make sure to wear comfy waterproof shoes and bring clothes that will keep you dry!"
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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