Brent Council is proposing a new tax on hotel and short-stay visitors to fund improvements due to the popularity of Wembley Stadium, attracting nearly three million visitors last year. The council aims to turn high visitor numbers into vital funding to address negative impacts such as noise and congestion. Council member Mary Mitchell noted that other cities successfully implement similar levies. The proposed levy seeks approval from the secretary of state and the mayor, with insights drawn from successful models in Manchester and Edinburgh related to visitor charges.
Brent Council is proposing a mandatory visitor levy on hotel and short-stay accommodations to generate funding for improvements in the borough, particularly in response to the cultural success of Wembley Stadium.
Each non-sporting event at Wembley Stadium boosts the local economy by around £4.35 million, yet the influx of visitors also leads to increased noise, congestion, and pressure on council services.
Mary Mitchell emphasized that London boroughs should adopt proven models from other UK and European cities to ensure that the benefits of events reach all residents.
The council plans to request permission to introduce the levy and seek support for a voluntary ticket levy to enhance grassroots cultural opportunities.
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