Welsh Treasury officials in Welsh Government are working on proposals that will give local authorities discretionary powers to introduce a visitor levy.

It is claimed that this 'tourism tax' will generate revenue to support investment in the tourism industry in their areas, but critics say that this will create a barrier to people visiting Wales, particularly as the cost of living crisis bites.

Introducing a visitor levy is a Welsh Government Programme for Government commitment and is being carried out in collaboration with Plaid Cymru as part of the  Co-operation Agreement. This policy will require new legislation and measures are unlikely to come into force for several years, if approved by the Senedd. 

A Welsh Government spokesperson explained: "We are proposing that a visitor levy will represent a small additional charge that will apply to stays in overnight, commercially-let visitor accommodation. Final decisions on the design of a levy will be taken following the consultation and considering all available evidence.
 
"The consultation is open until 13 December 2022 . We want to hear from as wide-ranging views as possible to help shape any proposals taken forward. We would be grateful if you would share the consultation details via your networks."

There is a full consultation document, a shorter community/ youth version and an easy read option. Discretionary visitor levy for local authorities.

A report on the consultation responses will be published in Spring 2023. Any questions about the consultation should be sent to VisitorLevyConsultation@gov.wales.