‘Tourism tax’ summit in Newquay follows PM’s support for levy

Cornwall’s business community will come together in Newquay next month to examine one of the most important questions facing the county’s visitor economy – what would a ‘tourist tax’ or visitor levy actually mean for Cornwall?

The announcement comes a few days after Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Cornwall and announced he supports the introduction of an overnight holiday levy in the Duchy.

He told us: “I am prepared to look at an overnight visitor levy for Cornwall. People in the tourism industry might say ‘woah, hang on, what will that mean for us?’ but it’s something that tourists from Britain are paying all over Europe this summer, so actually it could be something of a game changer for Cornwall.

“I don’t think people resent the idea of a few extra pounds on a hotel or Airbnb bill because you’re using the services. It’s not fair, actually, to pay for all of the services and infrastructure from council tax – that’s a burden that residents can’t carry on their own.

“Cornwall wouldn’t have to do it, but it’s just there as a possibility and I’m keen to not just give that power to mayors if there are parts of the coastal and rural economy that want those powers early and are prepared to move early for a devolution deal.”

Mr Burnham added: “I think it could be a major game changer in Cornwall, if it’s pitched the right way. Just start with a level that is fair. That is a new revenue stream and then you can borrow against that revenue stream.

“It could be massive for this county. Let’s get into that conversation sooner rather than later.”

Cornwall Council leader Cllr Leigh Frost says it could be a way for visitors to contribute to the funding of public services – but did not want it to be to the detriment of the tourism industry.

He added that the council was keen to be given the power so councillors could make a decision on whether to introduce it.

The issue will be discussed at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce Visitor Levy Summit on Friday, September 11, from 2pm to 5pm at the Atlantic Hotel, Newquay.

The free event will bring together representatives from hospitality, tourism, retail, professional services, local government and the wider business community to explore the potential economic impact of a ‘tourist tax’ or visitor levy.

Rather than campaigning for or against, the summit will provide a forum for businesses and stakeholders to challenge assumptions, hear different perspectives and consider the evidence that should inform any future decision.

Toby Parkins, CEO at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, said: “A visitor levy could have significant implications for Cornwall’s economy, so this is not a debate that should be driven by assumption or rhetoric. We want to bring people together, hear the arguments from every side and make sure that independent evidence is at the heart of the conversation.”

The summit will consider not only the direct effect on accommodation businesses, but also the potential consequences for attractions, hospitality, retailers, suppliers, employees and other businesses that depend on Cornwall’s visitor economy.

The event is free and open to all. Businesses are encouraged to register their interest and secure a place in advance here.