What funding mechanism do Lake District tourism businesses prefer?

Tourism businesses in the Lake District prefer a vehicle levy over a tax on overnight stays.

Who has the authority to implement a vehicle levy in the Lake District?

The power to implement a vehicle levy rests with the incoming Cumbria mayor, expected to be elected in 2027.

Why is a vehicle levy being considered for the Lake District?

A vehicle levy is being considered to generate revenue from the large number of day-trippers and address environmental and infrastructure pressures on the park.

Home / Environment / Lake District Eyeing Car Levy Over Tourist Tax

Lake District Eyeing Car Levy Over Tourist Tax

20 Feb

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Summary

Tourism leaders favor a vehicle levy instead of overnight stay tax.
Most visitors arrive for day trips, making a car levy potentially more lucrative.
The incoming Cumbria mayor, elected in 2027, holds the power to enact the levy.

Lake District Eyeing Car Levy Over Tourist Tax

Tourism businesses in the Lake District National Park are expressing a preference for a vehicle levy, rather than a tax on overnight stays. This sentiment emerged from a Keswick Tourist Association meeting, where members largely favored the car levy. The rationale behind this preference is that approximately 80% of visitors are day-trippers, suggesting a car-based fee could generate more substantial revenue.

The Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has acknowledged the proposal but stated it does not currently possess the authority to implement a vehicle levy. This power is expected to reside with the newly elected Cumbria mayor, whose election is scheduled for 2027. The LDNPA has committed to collaborating with relevant authorities and the future mayor on visitor management initiatives.