Councillors approved a motion on Thursday, March 27 which instructs the Labour Executive to explore the different ways a visitor levy, otherwise known as a tourist tax, could be introduced.
Labour’s Cllr Conrad Whitcroft, who tabled the motion, said the charge would stop residents having to pick up the tab for the cost of managing tourism.
But Conservative group leader Cllr Chris Steward said while he thought the levies would ultimately become more common, York should be wary of being seen to lead the charge.
The approval of Cllr Whitcroft’s motion including with support from the opposition Liberal Democrats who called for one during debates on York Councils Budget in February.
Backers of overnight stay charges say it would help pay for York’s upkeep and could be invested in its tourism offering but those against claim it could put visitors off.
Some hotels and others in the hospitality industry have also voiced concerns about how a charge would be collected and spent.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Mayor backs tourism tax for York saying we could invest in public services
- North Yorkshire Tory MP blasts Labour Mayor's support for 'tourist tax'
- Tourist tax could fund free shuttle bus service for York people, says councillor
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