Three popular seaside resorts in southern England are set to become the first destinations in the UK to introduce a “tourist tax” for visitors.
From July 1, just before the school summer holidays, people staying in popular Dorset holiday spots will be charged £2 per room or unit per night as part of the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID).
The tax model mimics those in place in Europe and the US and follows a successful consultation period, with 16 of 31 local businesses voting in favour of the scheme.
Read more: Tourist taxes around the world – how high are they?
The tourist tax has been introduced to boost tourism and authorities estimate it will raise £12 million over the next five years.
ABID said it would “protect our local economy” by generating funds to attract more tourists to the county.
Destination Management Board chairman Andy Lennox called the move a “historic moment for the town”, while Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council leader Vicky Slade said: “We are thrilled to be working with them to deliver a more productive and resilient tourism economy and destination management.”
Key calendar events expected to be supported by the tourist tax include Bournemouth Aviation Festival, Arts by the Sea, Poole Christmas Maritime and Christmas Tree Wonderland.
The council has previously unveiled cost-cutting measures, including ending funding for the resort’s annual air show from 2024 onwards and halting financial support for applications into the Blue Flag beaches awards scheme.
Rosie Radwell, managing director of Marsham Court Hotel and chair of ABID’s shadow board, said she believed the tourist tax was “good news for destinations” and was “really pleased that accommodation providers have voted in favour of ABID”.
She added: “The additional funds raised will have a huge impact on the future of tourism in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. On behalf of the volunteer shadow ABID board, I would like to thank other accommodation providers for recognising the power of partnerships and the need to act now.”
“We are excited about the future and have already started planning projects and events to boost tourism in the area.”
