MP’s survey shows support for a tourist tax for the Lakes

A survey conducted by local MP Tim Farron has shown large support for the idea of a tourist tax to raise money to improve local infrastructure.

65% of the 635 people who took part said they were in favour of such a tax, with roads, public transport and public transport being the top three priorities for how the money should be spent locally.

The idea of a tourist tax, which are common on the continent as a way of raising money to provide better local facilities, was mentioned several times during Tim's recent summer tour.

Tim said: "The aim of this survey was to see if this idea which is used across Europe has any merit here in the Lakes.

"With around two thirds of people supporting the idea, as well as those who have either emailed me or spoken to me face to face since I launched the survey, there seems to be an appetite out there for some kind of tourist tax to raise money for local services.

"From those who were not supportive of the idea, many felt that the idea of a bed tax in particular would be too intrusive or would potentially deter people from visiting the Lake District.

"However many people suggested other types of tourist taxes, so charging people a little extra on their overnight stay isn't the only option.

"But what also came out loud and clear from the survey is that people, whether they are in favour of a tourist tax or not, feel very strongly that money needs to be badly spent improving our roads, rail and bus services and that additional funding to deal with this is badly needed."