BCP is leading a Coastal Tourism Tax

Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) are on their way to being the first coastal areas setting a groundbreaking initiative in place with a tourist levy, potentially yielding over £12 million across the first five years.

An average of £2 per night will be the visitor charge for tourists. This was decided by the Accommodation Business Improvement District, following a thorough consultation process.

Comparable to the fee amount in popular tourist destinations in Europe and the United States, the revenue generated will be strategically reinvested into improving the town’s facilities and infrastructure. Crucially, these funds will play a pivotal role in sustaining and augmenting signature events such as the celebrated Air Festival, Arts by the Sea, Poole Christmas Maritime festivities, and Christmas Tree Wonderland.

Following the consultation period, during which stakeholders provided useful feedback, a decisive vote was cast by 31 industry enterprises. Of these, 16 entities supported behind the proposal.

The implementation of the £2 per night tax for visitors at major accommodation providers is being actioned from on 1st July 2024. This landmark initiative displays BCP's commitment to sustainable tourism practices as well as its position as popular coastal destinations.

The levy is not administered by BCP Council; it is collected by BCP Council on behalf of the ABID. The ABID board is an independent entity comprising primarily of accommodation providers from various accommodation sectors, along with key stakeholders from across BCP.

Photo Credit: Photos By Cenk