Issue - meetings

To submit the report of the Head of Regulation and Economic Development.

It was resolved to support the following –

·      The undertaking of a public consultation process regarding the potential introduction of a visitor levy on Anglesey (in line with Council and Welsh Government guidelines).

·      That the consultation process be planned in conjunction with Gwynedd and Conwy Councils but conducted independently.

The report of the Head of Regulation and Economic Development which sought the Executive’s approval to conduct a public consultation on whether Anglesey should introduce a Visitor Levy was presented for consideration. Details of the requirements for the conduct of the consultation was provided in Annex A the report.

Councillor Gary Pritchard, Leader introduced the report, noting that Welsh Government requires councils to consult residents, businesses and other local organisations before deciding whether to introduce a visitor levy. Neighbouring Gwynedd and Conwy Councils intend to undertake a consultation process in June/July 2026 and Anglesey considers it sensible to collaborate with Gwynedd and Conwy on the approach and timetable, though each council would run its own consultation independently.

Councillor Alun Roberts, Portfolio Member for Leisure, Tourism, Maritime and Property noted that the proposed consultation must follow the Gunning Principles advocated by Welsh Government. These include undertaking consultation at an early stage, providing sufficient information for informed responses, allowing adequate time with 12 weeks recommended, and ensuring that decision makers properly consider the responses. The final decision must be taken by Full Council.

The Executive stressed its intention to seek views from all interested parties and stakeholders and encouraged everyone to contribute. It was also noted that all visitor accommodation providers in Wales will be required to sign up to a national register regardless of whether the Council ultimately adopts the levy.

The Chief Executive explained that the national register is still under development by Welsh Government. Once further details are available, a member briefing session will be arranged to outline how the register will operate and whether the Council will have any operational or enforcement responsibilities.

It was resolved to support the following –

·      The undertaking of a public consultation process regarding the potential introduction of a visitor levy on Anglesey (in line with Council and Welsh Government guidelines).

·      That the consultation process be planned in conjunction with Gwynedd and Conwy Councils but conducted independently.