Tourists visiting the North East could have to pay a £1 tax, under plans from a mayoral candidate to turbocharge the region’s cultural sector.
Kim McGuinness has announced plans to put a £1-a-night levy on hotel stays, after Manchester became the first UK city to impose such a charge earlier this year. Ms McGuinness, who is currently the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, is the favourite to become Labour’s candidate for the North East mayoral election next year – having made the final shortlist alongside ex-MEP Paul Brannen last week, following Jamie Driscoll’s controversial exclusion from the contest.
She said that the proceeds of a tourist tax could be used to fund new events and attractions designed to bring more people to the region, which receives fewer visitors than any other region in England. Ms McGuinness added: “The people in the North East are incredibly proud of all we have to offer, from arts to music to sport and more. Our cultural heritage defines us. Now it’s time to grow that.
