Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Public Health, outlines why a tourism levy would be good for Liverpool and the wider City Region…
The recent announcement of Edinburgh’s successful introduction of a tourism levy and yesterday’s announcement that BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend will be coming to Liverpool in May, presents a timely opportunity to consider the benefits that a similar tourism levy initiative would provide for Liverpool, our visitor economy and major events.
As Cabinet member for Culture, I have always championed innovative ideas that balance economic growth with sustainable development. Tourism is the lifeblood of the city region, attracting millions of visitors annually, drawn by its rich cultural offering, musical heritage and world-class events.
However, as tourism thrives, so do the pressures on our public services, infrastructure, and the environment.
A tourism levy is not just a tool to generate revenue but an investment in preserving and enhancing our city region for residents and visitors alike, ensuring we manage our region responsibly and sustainably.
Learning from Edinburgh’s Success
Edinburgh’s visitor levy, projected to raise over £100 million by 2030, sets a compelling precedent. Their planned charge— 5% on overnight stays—will reinvest directly into improving the city’s appeal, supporting destination marketing, and enhancing the visitor experience. Similar models across Europe and beyond have demonstrated that tourists are willing to pay a small fee when they see its tangible benefits. Indeed the IPPR think tank has suggested that a visitor levy is the type of fiscal devolution that could help Combined Authority areas such as the Liverpool City Region.
The Case for Liverpool
Here in Liverpool, a tourism levy could build on the innovative work of the Accommodation BID which currently is the mechanism used to collate funding in Liverpool for tourism from the hotels. Building on this foundation, it’s important that we discuss the opportunities the introduction of a tourism levy could present with different accommodation types as well as hotels, together with city stakeholders and the private sector, as the narrative continues to develop.
Understandably, some industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about potential impacts on tourism numbers. However, research shows that when funds are transparently reinvested into improving the visitor experience, tourists overwhelmingly support such levies. Importantly, any scheme implemented would include representation from local businesses, communities, and industry stakeholders to ensure its fairness and effectiveness.
At present, legislation does not allow for the introduction of a tourism tax in England. However, this might change with the upcoming English Devolution Bill and we would welcome discussions on how this could benefit and operate here.
A Shared Vision
This proposal is not about placing additional burdens on visitors but about ensuring Liverpool and the wider City Region remains a desirable destination. By reinvesting in our city, we can sustain a vibrant visitor economy that benefits everyone—from local businesses to residents who share their home with millions of tourists each year.
Myself and Council leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, are committed to exploring this idea in partnership with our Metro Mayor and neighbouring local authorities, businesses, and communities.
Together, we can develop a model that ensures Liverpool and the City Region thrives as a world-class destination for generations to come.
I look forward to meaningful conversation with partners and stakeholders on this issue as we take these steps toward a more sustainable future for our region’s visitor economy.