Tourism businesses express concerns over proposed visitor levy in North Yorkshire
Survey reveals opposition to proposed levy on overnight stays
Tourism businesses across North Yorkshire have participated in a countywide survey to inform the council's response to a planned national consultation on the proposed visitor levy.
The survey, launched by North Yorkshire Council in December, aimed to collect perspectives from businesses and organisations within the county’s multi-billion-pound tourism sector concerning the Government's visitor levy proposal.
Conducted by Visit North Yorkshire, the survey received 277 responses, with 71 percent voicing opposition to the levy, 18 percent supporting it, and 11 percent remaining neutral.
Cllr Mark Crane, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, highlighted the importance of local input in shaping the council’s stance on the proposed levy.
“We would like to thank all the businesses and organisations who took the time to take part in the survey in North Yorkshire," Crane said.
"It is important that we listen to what the tourism sector is telling us locally, and I am very keen to use our voice to highlight what businesses are saying about the proposed visitor levy to the Government."
Concerns and feedback from the tourism sector
The survey findings revealed various concerns, including fears that a visitor levy could lead to fewer overnight stays or shorter trips, particularly among cost-conscious visitors and families.
Businesses expressed worries about the administrative burden the levy could introduce, including added costs and adjustments to booking and payment systems.
There was also apprehension that visitors might opt for places without a levy, affecting North Yorkshire's appeal as a destination.
Many respondents voiced that any revenue from a potential visitor levy should be allocated to enhancing visitor experiences and supporting tourism sustainability.
Cllr Crane plans to consider the report outlining these findings during a meeting on 17th February. If approved, this will inform the council’s response to the Government's national consultation, which closes on 18th February.
Tourism contributes over £4 billion to the local economy, with 32.2 million visitors recorded in 2024, marking a 3.8 percent increase from 2023.
Responses to the survey came from various parts of the visitor economy, including accommodation providers, attractions, food and drink businesses, event organisers, and activity providers.
Despite the focus on businesses and organisations, the survey did not seek the views of residents and visitors.