Bombshell plans to slap £5 tourist tax on day-trippers to UK seaside city (Image: Getty)
A bombshell suggestion to charge day-trippers £5 to visit is set to spark huge debate.
The idea, which aims to address the issue of overtourism, was put forward by Caroline Cartellieri, a non-Executive Director at Europ Assistance, Saffron Building Society, and the Museum of London Trading Board.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Cartellieri said: “As overtourism continues to challenge popular UK like Brighton, innovative solutions are crucial.”
She stressed how a , although not currently proposed, could potentially help limit the negative impact of day-trippers while protecting the local community.
Brighton has seen an influx of over the years, particularly during the summer months.
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A tourist tax could potentially help limit the negative impact of day-trippers. (Image: Getty)
This surge in tourism has brought with it a host of problems, according to Cartellieri.
“House prices have risen by nearly 20 percent since 2022, the city has over 4,000 holiday rentals, and finding a spot to relax on the beach is nearly impossible,” she said.
She also stressed how the rise in short-term holiday rentals, such as , has transformed residential areas.
“One acquaintance of mine lives on a street where 80 percent of the properties are Airbnbs,” she added.
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Brighton has seen an influx of visitors over the years. (Image: Getty)
The strain caused by overcrowding has led to concerns over littering, traffic congestion, and noise pollution.
According to Cartellieri, day-trippers pose a big problem as they don’t contribute much to the local economy, often bringing their own food and leaving behind their rubbish.
Initiatives like “Take 3 for the Sea” – where locals pick up litter on the beach – have had little effect, she said.
While the idea of a tourist tax may seem drastic to some, Cartellieri pointed to Venice’s plans to introduce a similar fee.
She said: “A £5 (or more) day-tripper tax could be added to parking charges or train fares, or paid via an app.”
This tax, Cartellieri said, could help limit overcrowding and encourage tourists to spread out across the city rather than concentrating in busy areas.
However, Cartellieri made it clear that this is merely a suggestion, and no official plans are in place.
The idea would need considerable consultation and support before being seriously considered.