Isle of Anglesey County Council has agreed to hold a public consultation on whether it should introduce a visitor levy.

Recent Welsh legislation has given councils the option to introduce a levy on overnight stays in visitor accommodation, but it is not mandatory. Any decision on whether to introduce a levy would be for Anglesey alone.

Today (Tuesday, 12 May), the Full Council agreed to invite views on a potential levy from residents, local businesses, visitors and partner organisations through a consultation process. It will aim to gain a greater understanding of local opinion, potential impacts and any concerns before any future decision is considered.

A visitor levy, where introduced elsewhere, involves a small additional charge on overnight stays in visitor accommodation. Welsh legislation requires any money raised to be used to support tourism, destination management and local infrastructure.

The council’s report highlights a number of potential benefits, including:

• providing additional funding to help maintain visitor facilities such as footpaths, toilets and car parks
• supporting sustainable tourism and reducing pressure on communities and the environment
• opportunities to invest in projects that enhance the island’s cultural assets and promote the Welsh language

However, the report presented to councillors also recognises potential challenges and concerns, including:

• the possible impact on tourism businesses, particularly smaller accommodation providers
• uncertainty around how visitors might respond to an additional charge
• the need to ensure that any revenue raised is transparent, additional and clearly linked to tourism benefits

Council Leader and Economic Development portfolio holder, Councillor Gary Pritchard, explained, “Tourism is an integral part of our economy and identity, but we also know it brings challenges that are felt very differently across our communities and seasons.”

“This consultation is about listening carefully to those views - particularly from local businesses, residents and the communities most affected by visitor pressures - before any conclusions are drawn.”

He added, “No decisions have been made, and the purpose of consulting is to ensure that any future approach, if one is taken at all, is based on local evidence, local priorities and informed discussions.”

Anglesey’s Head of Regulation and Economic Development, Christian Branch, said, “From an economic development perspective, it’s important that we fully understand both the potential opportunities and the risks for the island before any decisions are taken.”

“The evidence on visitor levies shows that impacts can vary significantly depending on local context, visitor behaviour and how any revenue is used. This consultation will help us test that evidence against Anglesey’s specific economy, business landscape and seasonal tourism patterns, and ensure that a wide range of voices are reflected in the analysis.”

No decision has been made on whether a visitor levy will be introduced. Any future decision would only be taken after careful consideration of the consultation feedback and supporting evidence.

Details of the consultation, including how and when people can take part, will be published shortly.

Ends 12 May 2026