A major hotel group have challenged Liverpool’s newly introduced ‘tourist tax’.
The City Visitor Charge came into effect at the start of June with guests staying at either hotels or serviced accommodation charged a £2 levy plus VAT per night.
But the scheme is already facing opposition from Whitbread PLC, owners of the Premier Inn chain, who have contacted the government about voiding the ballot.
Up to 83 hoteliers and serviced apartment holders in the city were asked to vote on the proposal and returned a majority of 26-18, representing a 53% turnout.
A minister will consider the challenge with any monies collected under the new levy will be held by Liverpool City Council pending a decision on the motion to void.
Cllr Harry Doyle, cabinet member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said: “Liverpool’s hotels showed great commitment in supporting the Accommodation BID.
“The right to challenge the BID ballot result is built into the legislation, and the City Council and BID team will be diligent in responding to the concerns that have been raised by Whitbread.
“This does, however, reinforce the council’s position and that of Mayors around the country that visitor levies would benefit from a new national arrangement, established under the proposals for devolution.
“The case for a visitor levy has been made and is being advocated across the UK.”