Glasgow and Wales consider tourism taxes for public services

Glasgow’s recently introduced visitor levy will charge overnight guests a 5 % surcharge, projected to generate about £16 million each year. A tenants’ union and Green Party councillors are urging the city to direct the revenue to a publicly funded bus system, arguing it would benefit both residents and tourists. Council officials note the funds may not fully cover the cost of a new network, but the proposal has sparked debate over using tourism money for transport.

Across Wales, individual councils are assessing whether to impose a similar levy from 2027, ranging from £0.80 to £1.30 per person per night plus VAT for hotels, B&Bs and hostels. The discussion references a century‑old tourism tax in Les Gets, France, which locals say supports public services, ski infrastructure and free transport. Proponents argue the tax could fund local facilities and promote the tourism economy, while some operators worry it will raise visitor costs and fail to solve existing issues such as traffic and parking. Each council will decide independently whether to adopt the scheme.