Worry in Wales as new charge sparks fears over future tourist numbers
- UK Hidden Gems
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
People visiting Wales could soon have to pay a tourist tax when staying overnight.
The Welsh Government is bringing in a new law that would let local councils add a small charge to the cost of staying in hotels or other places.
While the government says the money will help improve services for visitors and locals, some business owners are worried the tax might put people off coming to Wales.
The new tourist tax means anyone staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or holiday rental could be charged £1.25 per person each night, while those staying in a hostel or campsite might pay 75p per night.
It’s believed the tax could raise up to £33 million a year if every council in Wales takes part. The money would be used to support local tourism and improve facilities.
To help run the new tax, all places offering accommodation will need to register under a new scheme, which is expected to begin next year. The law still needs approval from the Senedd, and councils wouldn’t be able to bring in the tax until 2027 at the earliest.
William McNamara, who runs Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire, said: “Even though we now know more about the £1.25 charge, there are still worries about how this might affect tourism.”
He added: “Wales could seem less appealing to families, especially since this tax isn’t being added in England. It’s already a competitive market, and this adds extra uncertainty if councils can raise the tax later.”
During a consultation in 2022, one business owner said: “Bringing in this tax now or anytime soon would hurt our business and the self-catering industry.”
The idea has also faced criticism from opposition parties. Peter Fox, finance spokesperson for the Welsh Conservatives, warned that the tax could lead to job losses and fewer people choosing to holiday in Wales.
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