Hotel levy delayed after businesses launch appeal

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Accommodation BID has paused plans to introduce a levy on large hotels following an appeal by hoteliers to the Department for Levelling Up brought under The Business Improvement Districts (England) Regulations 2004.

The Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID), which was launched in May 2024, was set to implement a policy requiring large accommodation providers pay a £2 per night charge on visitors from 1 July.

The organisation said the money raised would help enact its business plan for the area. It contended that the 'visitor charge' model is similar to those operating in numerous cities in Europe and around the world.
However, the plans have now been postponed after more than 40 local hotels appealed.

In a statement, Rosie Radwell, Chair of Bournemouth Christchurch, and Poole Accommodation BID (ABID) said: "As with any new and innovative project, questions and anomalies arise that need to be addressed to achieve the Accommodations BID's goal: ensuring Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole remains a top visitor destination in the UK.

"We recognise the diversity of accommodation providers within our area, each with unique business models and clientele.

"While an Appeal has been submitted and it is inappropriate to comment in detail here, we remain confident in the integrity of the ballot and its adherence to the Regulations."

Radwell said the process behind formulating the policy had been "challenging" and that finding a "one size fits" all solution has been "complex".

She added: "Many accommodation providers, regardless of their stance on the Accommodation BID would prefer to delay the levy collection arrangements until the appeal result is determined.

"Taking this feedback into consideration, the ABID Board met today and voted to delay levy collection until the outcome of the appeal, expected by the end of September 2024."

Adam Carey