The National Landscapes Association submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and HM Treasury consultation on the introduction of an overnight visitor levy in England.

The consultation sought views on the design of a new Mayoral power to create visitor levies on overnight stays in England. It sought input on a range of ideas including the types of accommodation included in the levy, how and by whom the levy should be administered, equalities impact, and the processes surrounding introducing and revising any levies.

Our response centres on three core priorities. Firstly, where relevant, a meaningful share must be ring-fenced and made directly available to National Landscapes Teams. Secondly, providers pursuing a charitable or educational purpose and those from low-income households, educational groups, young people, and others deemed to be a local priority should be exempted from the levy. Thirdly, that National Landscapes Management Plans should serve as a guiding framework for the allocation of levy revenues.

These measures ensure that National Landscapes can continue to support local economies, conserve and enhance natural beauty, and be welcoming spaces for all long into the future.