Should visitors be taxed to stay in Powys?

Residents, businesses and visitors are being invited to share their views on whether Powys County Council should consider introducing a Visitor Levy in the future.

The Visitor Levy is a small charge on overnight stays in visitor accommodation. It has been introduced by Welsh Government legislation and councils in Wales can decide whether to introduce it locally. Before making any decision, the council wants to understand local views and the possible effects on communities, businesses and visitors.

Powys County Council has agreed a cautious approach and is not proposing to introduce a levy at this stage. Instead, the council is carrying out initial engagement to understand views from across the county.

The feedback will be shared with Cabinet and Council to inform consideration of any future approach, with any decision on whether to introduce a Visitor Levy in Powys being a matter for the next Administration to consider following the elections in May 2027.

If Powys were to introduce a Visitor Levy in the future, there would need to be a further formal consultation process. The earliest it could be introduced in Powys would be 2028.

The rates are set by Welsh Government for the whole of Wales.

Current rates are 75p per person per night for campsites, pitches and hostels, and £1.30 per person per night for all other visitor accommodation types. Some stays would not be subject to the levy, including longer stays of more than 31 days, stays at someone’s sole or main residence, and certain emergency or temporary housing situations.

This initial engagement asks people what they think about the principle of a Visitor Levy, the possible impacts on communities and businesses, and how any income should be used if a levy was introduced in the future. Potential uses could include visitor facilities, public toilets, footpaths, signage, environmental protection, visitor information, events and destination management.

Cllr Glyn Preston, Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “Tourism is important to Powys. It supports jobs, businesses and communities, but it can also create pressures on local infrastructure and services.

“We want to hear a range of views from residents, businesses and visitors. Whether you support the idea, have concerns, or simply want to learn more, we encourage you to take part and share your thoughts.”

The survey is open until Wednesday, September 30. It should take around 10 minutes to complete and is available in Welsh and English.

Complete the survey online athttps://www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/visitor-levy

Printed copies will also be available from Powys libraries.