A new report commissioned by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, has proposed the introduction of a flat £1 per night visitor levy across the region, with potential revenues of up to £26 million annually to support local communities, tourism infrastructure and hospitality businesses.
Published by York and North Yorkshire Policy Lab, the report explores the opportunities, risks and challenges associated with introducing an overnight visitor levy. It also examines a range of potential models, including both flat-rate and percentage-based charging systems, before outlining recommendations tailored to the region's tourism economy.
According to the report, evidence from destinations that have already introduced visitor levies suggests that modest charges do not discourage tourism in highly attractive locations. Cities including Edinburgh, Manchester, Paris and Barcelona have continued to experience steady visitor growth following the implementation of similar schemes.
The report recommends the use of a straightforward, low-cost digital platform to administer a flat £1 per night charge. It also suggests exemptions for lower-cost accommodation, helping to reduce administrative and financial pressures on smaller tourism operators and campsites.
If introduced, the levy could generate up to £26 million each year. The funding would be reinvested into the hospitality and tourism sector while supporting improvements to transport, public spaces and other infrastructure relied upon by both residents and visitors.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
“York and North Yorkshire has something for everyone. Millions visit every year, and that’s why a visitor levy could be a total game changer for us.
"Thriving communities and thriving destinations go hand in hand, but welcoming so many visitors puts pressure on the infrastructure and services our residents rely on.
"We must get this right for our county so we can invest in our communities, and our hospitality and tourism businesses. That's why I'm committed to keep talking with the sector as the details come together."
The publication comes ahead of the expected results of the Government's national consultation on visitor levies. Combined Authorities are expected to receive powers later this year to introduce such schemes through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill.
Over the coming months, David Skaith will continue discussions with tourism and hospitality organisations across the region as proposals are further developed in partnership with York St John University and the Policy Lab.
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