SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, fears introducing the controversial tourist tax will seriously impact businesses in North East Wales.
Last November the Welsh Government said they planned to introduce a levy of £1.25 per night for people staying in commercially-let overnight visitor accommodation from 2027.
Mr Rowlands, Chairman of the Cross-Party Group on Tourism, who has constantly argued against introducing the tourism tax, recently met with concerned business owners in Wrexham.
He said: “I have said time and time again that this is a ridiculous idea and that charging visitors more money will have a detrimental affect on tourism.
“I recently met with business owners in the Wrexham areas who are extremely concerned about the impact this proposed levy could have on their livelihoods. They also shared their worries with Cllr Nigel Williams, Lead Member for Economy, Business and Tourism in Wrexham Council who attended the meeting.
“Several concerns were raised including the worry that places in England, which realistically is only five miles away from the centre of Wrexham, could begin to undercut their prices and visitors would stay there rather than in North Wales.
“Charging visitors extra could have a major impact on tourism for my region as people may well choose to just have days out rather than a night away which will seriously affect local businesses.
“I know that not all councils are expected to introduce the levy so I would urge local authorities think about the consequences before giving it the go ahead.
“Tourism is big business in North Wales, in particular, yet the Labour Welsh Government continue to hamper its growth with its crippling 182 day holiday let regulations and the soon to be introduced tourism tax.
“It is about time we began to promote our country and supported the thousands of people who live and work in the tourism industry.”
