A decision on the potential introduction of a tourist tax in BCP is still pending.
In May, a ballot of hoteliers approved the levy, which would require hotel guests in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole to pay an extra £2 per room per night.
Following this decision, 42 hotels appealed, claiming the ballot was rushed and should be declared invalid. The appeal is now under review by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government.
A spokesperson for the Secretary of State stated: “We have been engaging with those involved in the ballot to ensure a fair decision is made on whether the ballot process was correctly followed. Our decision will not assess or endorse the policies proposed by the accommodation business improvement district (ABID). We aim to provide a judgment as soon as possible, ensuring fairness to all parties.”
The ABID had previously stated it would delay the tax’s introduction until the appeal outcome, which was expected in September. However, three months later, the outcome is still undecided.
Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes has voiced his support for the tourist levy, stating, “I think it’s a good idea because we need to find ways to bring money into the town to fund better services, particularly in hospitality.” He added, “We must promote Bournemouth as a destination where people can enjoy themselves and spend money. The accommodation bid is a way to collect a small amount from visitors, mostly from outside the area.”
Despite criticism from some hoteliers about the ballot process, BCP Council Chief Executive Graham Farrant expressed confidence, saying, “We are confident that the ballot process has been carried out fairly and in accordance with legal regulations.”
