Conservative calls to ditch Welsh tourism tax rejected

Published

1 year ago

May 23, 2024

THE SENEDD roundly rejected Conservative calls to ditch plans for a tourism tax.

Laura Anne Jones led a debate on the Welsh Government’s plans to roll out a visitor levy – a small fee for visitors staying overnight in tourism accommodation – from 2027.

The Tory MS warned the tax could make people think twice about holidaying in Wales, which would have a significant impact on tourism and hospitality businesses.

Ms Jones also raised concerns about the threshold for self-catering properties to qualify for business rates increasing from 70 to 182 days.

Calling for a reduction to 105 days, she warned the target has been difficult to achieve for many self-catering businesses, leaving owners at risk of 300% council tax premiums.

Ms Jones argued Visit Wales should be made independent of the Welsh Government.

The shadow culture secretary said: “The current Visit Wales system is not working and is struggling to attract people to Wales.”

Ms Jones, who represents South East Wales, told the chamber a tourism barometer published in February showed visitor numbers in decline since 2022.

Raising concerns about a significant hit to the Welsh economy, she said international visitor spending was £515m in 2019, which tumbled to £391m in 2022.

She accused the Welsh Government of “attacking” the tourism sector, saying ministers have nothing to offer besides empty words and ill-thought-out policies.

Luke Fletcher, for Plaid Cymru, stressed the importance of sustainability, raising concerns about communities becoming ghost towns in off-seasons.

The shadow economy secretary backed plans for a tourism tax because it would raise additional money to maintain attractions, streets and services.

Mr Fletcher argued a small levy would not deter visitors, raising Barcelona as an example, and he called for any money raised to be ring fenced for tourism.

He suggested a tourism levy will be rolled out elsewhere in the UK, with Manchester having brought in a £1-a-night charge which raised about £2.8m in its first year from April 2023.

The South Wales West MS urged the Welsh Government to restore rates relief for tourism businesses from 40% to 75% to take the pressure off the sector.

Peter Fox said tourism businesses in his Monmouth constituency, which are separated by mere miles from competitors in England, want a level playing field across the border.

He warned: “Businesses are facing the impending tourism tax, additional waste charges, the highest business rates in the UK, and reduced non-domestic rates support.

“All of these are causing real concern and anxiety to so many businesses that are already finding things really difficult at the moment.”

Mr Fox, who led Monmouth council for more than a decade, said local authorities will use revenue raised by a tourism tax to meet other pressures such as social care and health.

“That’s what will happen, guaranteed,” he told the Senedd.

Janet Finch-Saunders accused Labour and Plaid Cymru of “smothering” Welsh tourism with rules and regulations, which are having a detrimental impact on the industry.

The Aberconwy MS described plans for a tourism tax as a “horrible” idea dreamt up in the “ludicrous” cooperation agreement between the two political parties.

Sam Rowlands, a fellow Tory, warned a tourism tax will make Wales less competitive within the UK and send an unwelcome message to would-be visitors.

But Plaid Cymru’s Cefin Campbell said tourist levies are commonplace around the world, pointing to Croatia, Greece, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain and the Caribbean.

“They haven’t crippled tourism in any of these countries,” said the Mid and West Wales MS. “Instead they’ve empowered destinations to offer a better visitor experience.”

Responding to the debate on May 22, Jeremy Miles said the best way to protect the sector is to ask visitors to make a very modest contribution to the costs of tourism.

Wales’ economy secretary said the letting criteria for self-catering properties was changed to ensure owners are making a fair contribution and maximise the use of properties.

Mr Miles, who came into post in March, highlighted the Welsh Government’s tourism strategy as he outlined his vision for a sustainable tourism sector.

Accusing the Tories of running Wales down, he said: “I do deplore the way in which we heard some speakers … compare Wales unfavourably with other tourist destinations.”

MSs voted 13-33 against the Tory motion, with Plaid Cymru’s amendments also falling. The motion as amended by the Welsh Government was agreed, 24-22.

The Imperial Hotel reopens after stunning refurbishment

Published

10 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Tenby’s iconic seaside hotel restored to its former glory

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL in Tenby has reopened following a major refurbishment, restoring one of Wales’ best-loved coastal landmarks to its former splendour.

Now under the ownership of Crest Hotels Group, the Grade II-listed building has undergone a comprehensive transformation blending 19th-century heritage with contemporary luxury. With its position overlooking South Beach, the revamped hotel boasts redesigned rooms, a stylish new lounge, and the launch of a modern dining experience, Essence, offering sweeping views across Carmarthen Bay.

Crest Hotels acquired the property in 2024 and have since delivered what they describe as a “sensitive but ambitious” restoration. Every element of the upgrade respects the historic character of the building, while bringing it in line with today’s expectations for comfort and quality.

Tracy Webb, General Manager at the Imperial Hotel, said: “Crest Hotels has given this hotel what it deserves. The refurbishment is beautiful and will have a hugely positive impact on Tenby. With the new spa and gym opening next year, it will bring something a bit different to the town.”

All guest rooms have been redecorated in sea-inspired tones of blue and green, and now feature high-end fittings including Hansgrohe power showers, luxurious Sleepeezee beds, air conditioning, and high-speed internet. Substantial improvements have also been made to the bar, restaurant, and the hotel’s iconic seafront façade.

The new restaurant, Essence, champions Welsh produce and caters for both residents and visitors. The menu includes everything from small plates to three-course meals, with local ales, craft beers, and bespoke cocktails. The hotel is also dog-friendly, providing canine guests with dog biscuits while their owners enjoy complimentary Welsh cakes.

Tracy added: “The aim is for the Imperial to be as busy in winter as it is in summer. Tenby is such a special place — it means holidays, happiness, sunshine. South Beach has always been my favourite since childhood, so to work here with that view every day is amazing.”

Jason Hiley, Managing Director of Crest Hotels, said: “We want to reclaim the Imperial as the place to go in Tenby — a hotel that locals and visitors alike are proud of. It needed some tender loving care, and we’ve brought back the style and elegance it always deserved.”

Tenby remains one of Wales’ most popular holiday destinations, known for its colourful harbours, golden beaches, and rugged coastal walks. The Imperial Hotel offers a prime base for exploring the wider Pembrokeshire coast, including landmarks such as Carew Castle, Caldey Island, St David’s Cathedral, and the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

For more information or to book a stay, visit: www.imperialhoteltenby.co.uk

Business

Gigabit-capable broadband coverage continues to rise in Pembrokeshire

Published

2 days ago

May 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE ROLLOUT of gigabit-capable broadband in Pembrokeshire is progressing at an impressive pace, supported by the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Digital Infrastructure Programme. Recent data highlights significant year-on-year growth in broadband coverage, reflecting the success of this initiative and its role in enhancing digital connectivity across the region.

Coverage in the county has grown substantially. At the end of March 2021, only 7.6% of Pembrokeshire residents and businesses had access to gigabit-capable broadband. By the end of March 2024, this figure had reached 48.2%, and as of March 2025, it has risen again to 65.1%, demonstrating the program’s momentum (Source: ThinkBroadband).

The rollout has been bolstered by successful projects funded through the UK government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, ensuring that residents and businesses in more remote areas can access high-speed internet.

Key to the success of the rollout in Pembrokeshire has been the collaboration of two Digital Champions, who have worked closely with Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC). These partnerships have been instrumental in scheduling civil engineering works around the county’s bustling tourist economy and existing infrastructure projects, reducing disruption to residents and businesses.

Additionally, a wide range of suppliers are actively contributing to the project. Companies like Openreach, Ogi, Voneus, and the local business Dragon WiFi have all played vital roles in expanding broadband access across the county.

To further boost coverage, Openreach is delivering a £289 million contract as part of the UK government’s Project Gigabit. This initiative will connect around 131,000 homes and businesses in some of the most remote areas of South Wales to reliable, high-speed broadband.

The benefits of this expanded connectivity are significant, from better access to online services and improved opportunities for remote work and education, to supporting Pembrokeshire’s growing local economy.

Cllr Paul Miller commented, “The progress we’re seeing is a result of strong teamwork between the council, our partners, and the local community. We are committed to ensuring that everyone in Pembrokeshire benefits from fast, reliable internet access.”

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council and Chair of the Swansea Bay City Deal Joint Committee, said: “Year-on-year increases in gigabit-capable broadband coverage in Pembrokeshire are a tremendous achievement. This collaboration plays a crucial role in boosting the local economy, opening up opportunities, and ensuring that everyone, whether they live, work, or visit here, can benefit from better connectivity.”

Business

Thai massage clinic opens bringing authentic therapy to Milford Haven

Published

2 days ago

May 22, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A NEW traditional Thai massage clinic has opened in Milford Haven, offering specialist treatments for chronic pain, mobility issues, and stress relief — with a strong focus on therapeutic results.

Cosmic Thai Massage, based at 7 Pill Road, is run by Lisa, a qualified therapist originally from Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand. Having lived in the UK for over a decade, Lisa has recently opened the business during her second week of trading and is already earning praise from early clients for her warm manner and clinical skill.

A single mother raising her young daughter, who attends a local primary school, Lisa has invested everything into launching her new venture. She is fully certified in medical massage by the Thai Ministry of Public Health, meaning she is trained not only in traditional Thai and oil massage, but also in treatments for conditions such as lymphoedema, back and neck pain, and muscular inflammation.

One recent visitor said the treatment helped with both lymphoedema and ankylosing spondylitis, noting that while parts of the session were painful due to the nature of the condition, “Lisa treated me with care, professionalism, and real compassion throughout.”

The business operates in a newly refurbished premises with a peaceful and hygienic environment. Clients are required to sign a medical consent form, and treatments are tailored to individual health conditions, with Lisa taking time to understand each client’s needs.

Services offered include:

Traditional Thai massage
Thai oil massage
Deep tissue therapy
Circulatory and lymphatic drainage
Pain relief and mobility support for medical conditions

With many local residents struggling with access to NHS physiotherapy and long-term pain management options, businesses like Cosmic Thai Massage are filling a valuable gap in complementary healthcare.

Lisa told The Herald: “I want to help people feel better and bring Thai healing to Milford Haven. I’ve worked hard to make this space welcoming, and I’m so grateful for the support from the local community.”

Appointments can be booked online via:
👉 Fresha – Cosmic Thai Massage