The idea of introducing a tourism levy in the Lake District is sparking debate, with proponents suggesting it could enhance the area’s appeal and critics expressing concerns about its potential impact on visitor numbers.
Friends of the Lake District, a conservation charity, is advocating for a modest charge between £1 and £2 on either overnight stays or vehicle use. The revenue generated would be channeled into supporting local services, addressing the environmental strain, and improving infrastructure.
In its recently published report, Who Pays for the Lake District?, the charity draws attention to the “invisible burden” tourism places on the region. With about 18 million visitors annually, the Lake District enjoys economic benefits from tourism but also faces challenges such as overcrowded footpaths, littering, and pressure on local infrastructure.
Mike Hill, chief executive of Friends of the Lake District, believes a tourism tax could lead to positive outcomes. “We’ve found in much of our research that around the world, where a visitor levy has been introduced, it’s actually resulted in higher visitor numbers,” he explained. Hill cites improved amenities such as better-maintained footpaths, free electric buses, and more rangers as incentives that could attract even more tourists.
However, the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has no current plans to implement such a tax. Meanwhile, some business owners are wary of the proposal. Jonathan Denby, owner of South Lakes Hotels, warns that an additional charge might deter visitors. “We’re already taxed at 20% VAT on accommodation and meals, compared to 10% in many parts of Europe and Japan,” he argued.
Denby suggests that instead of imposing a tourism levy, the government should address the disparity in VAT rates. He also advocates for requiring AirBnB hosts to pay VAT, asserting that this approach could generate more revenue than a visitor tax.
Hill, however, remains unconvinced by these objections. “We really don’t think tourism businesses will suffer from a small charge,” he said. “A levy of just one or two pounds could create a substantial fund to invest in making the Lake District even more attractive to visitors.”
Dr. Celia Caulcott, chair of the Lake District National Park Partnership (LDNPP), recognizes the need for new funding mechanisms to support local communities and ensure sustainable travel options. She emphasizes the importance of securing investment to address current challenges while preserving the area’s natural beauty.
The debate underscores the delicate balance between reaping the economic benefits of tourism and managing its environmental and infrastructural impacts. While a tourism tax could unlock funding to enhance the visitor experience and support local communities, its implementation would need to address concerns about fairness and competitiveness with other destinations.
For now, the idea remains a topic of discussion, with stakeholders considering the best way forward for one of the UK’s most cherished national parks.
