Council Rejects Tourism Tax in Weston

Weston-super-Mare's council has dismissed the idea of implementing a tourism tax, despite growing calls from some residents for measures to address the negative impacts of increased visitor numbers. The town, historically known as a Victorian seaside resort, relies heavily on tourism, which plays a crucial role in its economy. Local volunteer groups, such as Sophie Newton's Sophie's Super Litter Picking Group, have expressed frustration over the litter problem exacerbated by tourists, highlighting their recent efforts to clean up 18 bags of rubbish from the beach. Sophie Newton emphasized the challenges posed by the influx of visitors, stating, "More people means more rubbish," and noted that the town struggles to manage the additional waste without increased funding. She argued that a tourism tax could help alleviate the financial burden on local services, which are currently stretched thin. However, Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, countered these concerns, asserting that a tourist tax is not the appropriate solution for the town. He pointed out that Weston-super-Mare attracted approximately 4.2 million day visitors and 175,000 overnight stays last year, generating nearly £200 million in total visitor spending. Bell's comments reflect a broader perspective on the economic benefits of tourism, suggesting that the focus should be on enhancing visitor experiences rather than imposing additional taxes. In addition to addressing tourism-related issues, the council is actively working on revitalizing Birnbeck Pier, having secured funding from the Levelling Up Fund to restore the historic structure.