Readers debate 'tourist tax' in Sheffield saying costs must not put off visitors to already struggling cities
Some argued that new taxes will disincentivise visitors if they are too steep
Sheffielders have shared their views on new powers allowing mayors to create a ’tourist tax,’ believing poorly handled hikes will only put off visitors.
Mayor Oliver Coppard described the proposed visitor levy as a “sensible first step” to fiscal devolution, after Andy Burnham’s Government approved plans that would give local authorities greater freedom in how they tax tourism in their regions.
It means regional mayors can impose fees on overnight trips based on a percentage of the cost of accommodation, then feed this money back into public services.
The Star asked its readers if they agreed with cities charging a tourist tax - and reactions were decidedly mixed.
“No I don't,” said Nicky Stott. “The fancy-pants places in the Cotswolds will hike up the tourist tax to claim they are worth more than Blackpool and Manchester.
“It will be like a badge of honour. It will be divisive and unfair - a ‘you're not welcome here tax’.”
Mary Roberts said: “How will this tax be collected and will it be used to improve services in the city it is collected?
“And surely if you collect from hotels, it should also include anyone using hotels, guest houses, rented accommodation etc, who isn't a British citizen.
“We pay in the USA when we visit family and it is any hotel, anywhere, not just in cities.”
Some argued that new taxes will disincentivise visitors if they are too steep.
Paul Clark said: “If you visit a town or city as a tourist, you more than likely spend a shed load of money throughout the day. Accommodation, food, drink, travelling, entry to attractions, gifts, etc.
“You pay enough to local businesses, without being clobbered with even more cost!”
“No, it's ridiculous,” said Richard Weaver. “We are a country that is skint, we should be encouraging people to visit not put them off.”
Brad Francis disagreed, and said: “Tourist taxes don’t put people off visiting. Look at Paris, Amsterdam etc, all have it and their number of visitors remains the same.”
“I think I do support it,” said Paula Heeley Ezeldine.
“Why should the council tax payers pay for the upkeep of the town to keep tourists happy? On the other hand tourism must benefit the town financially.”
In reply, Vicky Beedham said: “Tourists already bring a lot of money into the local economy in payment for accommodation, everything we buy or pay entrance fees for, cafes, shops etc that we use supports the local economy.”
The new plans come after a consultation which took place between November 26 last year and February 18.
Mayors will be given the power to introduce exemptions, such as for campsites, however can not simply identify whole localities to avoid the tax.