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Surrey Eyes Tourist Tax for New Councils
8 Sep
Summary
- Two new unitary authorities in Surrey are considering a tourism tax.
- The levy would apply to paid visitor accommodation like hotels and B&Bs.
- Government plans allow regional mayors to charge this overnight visitor tax.
Surrey's two new unitary authorities, East and West Surrey, are considering implementing an "overnight visitor levy." This proposed tourism tax would be levied on paid visitor accommodation, including hotels and guesthouses, with the aim of bolstering the councils' financial resources. The initiative aligns with government plans that empower regional mayors to introduce such charges.
These new councils are set to assume power next April, succeeding Surrey County Council and eleven district councils. By pooling resources, they plan to enhance services. The government has indicated that strategic authorities will have the ability to introduce this levy, with revenue reinvestment plans to be outlined by March 2028.
Similar taxes in other countries have generally shown a small per-night charge with limited negative effects on tourism. A 2019 study estimated that a £1 tourist tax across England could generate approximately £420 million annually.
