Our beauty spot paradise is being clobbered by ‘£35 tourist tax’ – it’s utter insanity & will kill all trade

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Our beauty spot paradise is being clobbered by ‘£35 tourist tax’ – it’s utter insanity & will kill all trade
Author: Maleeha Katib
Published: Dec, 30 2024 14:05

LOCALS in a beloved UK beauty spot have voiced their fears over plans to introduce a nightly tourist tax. The picturesque mountains, limestone caves, and cascading waterfalls of Brecon Beacons have long been a magnet for visitors from around the globe.

 [Brecon Beacons is a beloved national gem]
Image Credit: The Sun [Brecon Beacons is a beloved national gem]

The Welsh government is planning to roll out a new 'tourist tax' across the nation, which has sparked fears over driving away visitors and the knock-on impact on local trade. The charge, which would be £1.25 per person per night for hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodation, and 75p for campsites, could add £35 for a family of four staying a week in Wales.

 [The Welsh government is planning to roll out a 'tourist tax' across Wales]
Image Credit: The Sun [The Welsh government is planning to roll out a 'tourist tax' across Wales]

Critics say this will drive visitors away, crippling the rural economy. Ashford, who also represents the Welsh Association of Visitor Attractions, described the tax as "quite high" and pointed out the lack of exemptions for children. He said: “For a family, that will add roughly £35, £40 a week. If you’re staying two weeks, as many people do, that’s £70 on top of your bill.

 [Locals fear the planned tourist tax will impact local businesses]
Image Credit: The Sun [Locals fear the planned tourist tax will impact local businesses]

“It’s utter insanity to put Wales at such a disadvantage. At a time when everybody’s earnings are struggling, this tax will hit hard.". He also criticised the Welsh government for failing to see how "demoralised people feel". Ashford claims he's "already cancelled a £1.5m investment" and says other attractions are doing the same.

In the nearby village of Penycae, pub landlord Anthony Christopher expressed frustration with what he called “a bunch of weasels” in government. He said: “We’re a small family business, and all these extra taxes are taking away the will to do anything else.".

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