'Scrap visitor levy' as tourism struggles

INDUSTRY 'IS AT BREAKING POINT FROM RED TAPE AND TAXATION'

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE

A SIX-point plan has been launched by Welsh tourism chiefs to support a sector "at breaking point" from red tape and taxation.

They include pro-growth policies and the scrapping of the Visitor Levy.

Ahead of the 2026 Senedd elections, a “Tourism Recovery Manifesto” has been unveiled by PASC (The Professional Association of Self-Caterers) UK on behalf of the short-term holiday rental sector.

It claimed urgent action is needed to stem declines in Wales with operators now mired in an “unprecedented crisis”.

According to PASC UK, the sector is now grappling with the “most hostile trading environment in its history” as costs rise and visitor numbers fall. It claimed Welsh Government policy has placed Welsh operators at a competitive disadvantage, especially when compared with England.

Nicky Williamson, PASC UK Cymru’s head of policy, claimed the sector was “under siege”. She said iconic attractions have closed, visitor spend has dropped and holiday let owners are facing “unprecedented financial and mental health strain”.

She added: “Tourism in Wales is at breaking point. Without urgent intervention, Wales risks losing the enterprises that support our communities, sustain rural and coastal economies, and bring visitors from across the world.”

PASC UK Cymru is calling on every party to commit to a tourism recovery strategy. Six measures have been highlighted, including the Visitor Levy due for implementation from April 2027. Tourists could be charged up to £1.30 per person per night. Stays at campsites and hostels would incur a lower nightly charge of 75p per person. In many cases, VAT will be added, hiking the levy to £1.56 and 90p.