Tourism tax, new council housing development and free days out Bath and North East Somerset has been at the forefront of making the case for a tourism tax so I was pleased to hear today’s announcement on the Government's proposals to give local mayors powers to introduce an overnight visitor levy. We know that tourism brings enormous benefits to our economy but it also creates additional pressures on local services and infrastructure. It is right that money raised from visitors should be invested in the places where it is generated, helping to improve facilities and services that benefit tourists and residents alike. We now want to work closely with the hospitality and tourism industry on the detail to ensure any scheme is straightforward to administer and set at a level that raises meaningful funds for local investment without discouraging visitors. Millions of people already pay similar levies in destinations around the world, and if done properly this can help us maintain Bath and North East Somerset as a world-class destination while supporting the communities that make it such a special place to visit. There was also good news for one of Bath's most iconic events. Bath Christmas Market has been granted permanent planning permission, securing the future of an event that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and provides a significant boost to our local economy. The market supports local traders, hospitality businesses and attractions while bringing people together to enjoy everything our city has to offer in the run-up to Christmas. As September gets under way, I would like to start by offering a warm welcome to the thousands of students arriving for the start of a new academic year. Our universities and colleges are a huge part of what makes our area such a vibrant and exciting place to live. I would also like to thank residents who help make our communities welcoming places to live and learn. Providing homes people can afford is one of the council's key priorities, so I am delighted about the completion of our new council housing development in Danes Court in Keynsham. Ten high-quality, energy-efficient apartments have been delivered through the council's B&NES Homes programme by Aequus Construction Limited (ACL), the council-owned development company. The homes, built on council-owned land, which was previously used for informal parking, will provide much-needed social rented housing. Cabinet meets this evening to consider the next stage of our Draft Local Plan. This is an important document that sets out where new homes, jobs and supporting infrastructure could be delivered across Bath and North East Somerset over the next 20 years. Finally, Heritage Open Days starts tomorrow giving us all the chance to discover hidden gems on our doorstep over the next ten days – all free of charge. Have a great weekend. Councillor Kevin Guy,
Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
