A popular seaside county is pushing back against the introduction of the tourist tax as it aims to provide certainty across the industry. The Welsh government is set to introduce the visitor levy, but it will be up to individual councils to pursue it - Pembrokeshire council has announced it will not be introducing the tax. 

Finance minister Mark Drakeford announced two major changes on Wednesday, April 1. The first being that children will be exempt from the tax and also that the rates will be going up marginally to cover the cost. The levy is currently making its way through the Senedd process after passing its first vote. Pembrokeshire council has now announced it will not be placing the levy on tourists this term, according to cabinet member Paul Miller. The Welsh Government's finance minister also said he does not think any council could bring it in before 2027 due to the way in which the levy is being introduced. 

However, for any council wishing to implement the tax, it will have to carry out a public consultation with its residents. 

The Welsh government says the aims of the bill include ensuring a more even share of costs to fund local services and infrastructure that benefit visitors. Providing councils with the ability to generate money is another goal, which can then be invested back into local services and infrastructure to support tourism. Thirdly, the levy is expected to support the Welsh Government’s ambitions for sustainable tourism.

Cabinet member Paul Miller told WalesOnline: “We provide a fantastic tourism offer here in Pembrokeshire and it is an important part of the county’s economy. In addition to jobs, this administration’s approach is also about the year-round facilities and attractions that benefit local people too.

“We recognise the tourism landscape has experienced significant change, be that second homes legislation, tax changes and we’re aiming to provide some certainty to the industry. We acknowledge it's important to recognise there's a balance to be struck between supporting the industry and dealing with some of the challenges associated with peaks in season. 

“Therefore, I’m confirming it's not our intention to take forward the option of a visitor levy in Pembrokeshire during this administration."

Local MS Paul Davies welcomed the decision, saying that “Pembrokeshire County Council have made the right decision not to take forward a visitor levy”. Mr Davies explained how the industry has faced a challenging few years and that  “protecting the sustainability of the sector for years to come is key”.