Cyngor Gwynedd seeks for local people's views on Visitor Levy

Date: 14/05/2026

There will be an opportunity for people, communities and the business sector in Gwynedd to have their say on the introduction of a Visitor Levy which will support a more sustainable visitor economy for the county.

At a meeting of the Council today (14 May 2026), members accepted a report on the Visitor Levy in Gwynedd and agreed to proceed with a consultation process. This will include the opportunity to complete a questionnaire, attend drop-in sessions and dedicated events.

During the meeting, the members heard that the introduction of a Levy has the potential to generate income to support local popular destinations and respond to challenges.

Councillor R. Medwyn Hughes, Cyngor Gwynedd's Cabinet Member for Economy and Community, said:

"The tourism sector is an important part of Gwynedd's economy. Many people depend on it for their livelihood, and many businesses have invested heavily in the field. But we are also aware that there are challenges linked with tourism.

"The Visitor Accommodation Act requires providers of visitor accommodation across Wales to register as part of a national system. This act also allows local authorities – such as Cyngor Gwynedd – to charge a Visitor Levy on people who come here to stay.

"We have been working closely with the sector and with our partners such as the Eryri National Park Authority, the Welsh Revenue Authority and neighbouring councils as we prepare to submit this report to the Council.  

“The levy has the potential to generate significant income, which will be reinvested in the industry and in the communities affected by visitors.”

The report identifies several potential areas where the levy could be invested in the future. These include: support for businesses events and communities; improve public toilets and extend their opening hours; project which support cultural heritage and the Welsh language; improve public transport and footpaths; and respond to visitor pressures on the environment and nature.

Councillor R Medwyn Hughes added:

“All responses will be carefully considered as one part of the process, before the matter returns to the Full Council for all elected members of Cyngor Gwynedd to make a final decision on whether to adopt the Tourism Levy or not.”

The survey will open May 20 and close on July 15. If Cyngor Gwynedd decides to adopt the Levy, the earliest it can be brought in is 1 October, 2027.

There are a several ways that the people of Gwynedd can express their views from 20 May onwards:

  • On-line – on Cyngor Gwynedd's website: gwynedd.llyw.cymru/HaveYourSay
  • Filling in a paper questionnaire – copies of the questionnaire are available on request from the county’s libraries and from the three Siop Gwynedd offices (Caernarfon, Pwllheli, Dolgellau). A questionnaire can also be requested by post by calling 01766 771000.
  • Face-to-face – a series of events will be held in locations across Gwynedd throughout June. Keep an eye on Cyngor Gwynedd's social media accounts for locations and dates.

 

Two of Gwynedd’s neighbouring county councils – Anglesey and Conwy – are at the same stage of the process. On Tuesday, 12 May, the Isle of Anglesey County Council approved a proposal to hold a public consultation on whether or not to introduce a visitor levy and Conwy County Borough County Council is also discussing the matter today (14 May). Cardiff Council was the first local authority in Wales to adopt the Visitor Levy.

Notes

The rate of the levy (per person, per night) is set by the Welsh Government, namely:

  • Campsites and shared bedrooms (hostels and dormitories) 75p (90p inc. VAT)
  • All other types of holiday accommodation (caravan, glamping, motorhome, self-catering, bed and breakfast, hotel, etc.) £1.30 (£1.56 inc. VAT)

 

There are limited exceptions to the visitor levy, including children in hostels, campsites or shared dormitories).

The levy rate will be the same across Wales.

If the Levy was to operate in Gwynedd, the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA) would operate the registration, enforcement and collection of the Levy.