A proposed visitor levy for overnight stays in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole has sparked concerns among councillors as part of a newly approved ten-year growth plan for the area.
The BCP Growth Plan aims to create a more connected, productive and inclusive economy by 2036. Council leader Millie Earl described the plan as timely and important, especially as the region looks towards further devolution and investment opportunities.
During the council debate, Councillor Sara Armstrong said the suggestion of a visitor levy could worry many residents working in hospitality.
She argued that overnight guests are the visitors the area wants to attract, as they support hotels, restaurants, attractions and shops, and questioned why the plan would make it more expensive for them to stay.
Councillor Armstrong also highlighted that day visitors place significant demand on public services but contribute less economically than overnight guests.
Other councillors raised issues about the deliverability of the plan, future funding and the need for collaboration with MPs.
Despite these concerns, the growth plan received broad support, with fifty councillors voting in favour, four against and seven abstaining.
