Crawley MP Peter Lamb backs new visitor levy that could raise money for town centre improvements

Crawley MP Peter Lamb has welcomed government proposals that could see visitors charged an additional fee for overnight accommodation, with money raised used to improve local high streets, public spaces and transport.

The Labour MP believes the proposed Visitor Levy could provide significant opportunities for Crawley, particularly because of its proximity to Gatwick Airport and the large number of hotels and hospitality businesses operating in the area.

The legislation would give mayors and local leaders powers to introduce a charge on overnight accommodation, with revenue reinvested into local communities.

The money could be used to improve town centres, support businesses, enhance public transport and invest in infrastructure and attractions benefiting both residents and visitors.

However, the levy would not be introduced automatically. Local authorities would decide whether to implement the charge, with businesses and residents consulted before any decision.

Under the proposals, the levy would be calculated as a percentage of accommodation costs rather than a fixed amount, meaning visitors staying in cheaper accommodation would pay proportionately less.

Mr Lamb believes Crawley could benefit from the changes because of the millions of passengers travelling through Gatwick Airport each year.

He said: "Crawley is in a unique position as the home of Gatwick Airport, with millions of people travelling through our area every year."

The MP highlighted the importance of hotels, restaurants and other hospitality businesses in supporting the local economy and providing employment.

He said the proposed powers could allow some of the money generated by overnight visitors to be reinvested in improvements that matter to residents.

"These new powers could provide an opportunity to reinvest some of the money generated by overnight visitors into the things that matter to local people, whether that's improving our town centre, supporting our high street businesses or investing in better public spaces and local infrastructure."

However, Mr Lamb acknowledged the financial pressures facing the hospitality industry and stressed that any new charges would need to be developed carefully.

"Any proposals must be developed in close consultation with local businesses, ensuring that they are fair, proportionate and support Crawley's economic competitiveness."

The Crawley MP said the legislation was ultimately about giving communities greater control over how money is raised and spent locally.

He welcomed the government's proposals, arguing they could allow more of the economic benefits generated by visitors to be invested back into the communities hosting them.

No decision has been made on whether a visitor levy would be introduced in Crawley, and any future proposals would be subject to local consideration and consultation.

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