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Wales Online
22-06-2025
- Wales Online
We asked every Welsh council if it was going to bring in a tourism tax
We asked every Welsh council if it was going to bring in a tourism tax While it is a Welsh Government law, it will be up to each of Wales' 22 councils to decide whether to implement it The Welsh Government says it could make £33m a year if all councils were to introduce it (Image: Philip Taylor ) The Welsh Government is bringing in a visitor levy - more commonly known as a tourism tax - for Wales. While it will create the law and the rules around the levy, each of Wales' 22 councils will make the call about whether it wants to introduce it. Each council would have to consult its residents before bringing it into force. Mark Drakeford, Wales' finance minister, has said that the earliest any authority would be able to introduce it would be 2027. It will apply to all types of visitor accommodation, at one of two rates to anyone staying in Wales overnight whether in an Airbnb, Vrbo, or short-term let, or hotel, hostel, or campsite. The plans have been changed slightly since they were first announced after concerns raised about whether children and young people should have to pay. The revised proposal is for all under-18-year-olds to be exempt from paying, but that has meant the prices will go up for others from the 75p originally proposed to 80p and from £1.25 to £1.30 per night for the higher rate. You can read the changes here. If all Wales' councils decided to introduce it, it would make £33m a year, the Welsh Government say. We approached all of Wales' 22 councils and asked if they were starting the process to bring in the levy and, if they were, any dates they expected the consultation to be launched. Article continues below While many say they are still reviewing their options, some have ruled themselves out. Pembrokeshire will not, nor will Rhondda Cynon Taf. The leader of Wrexham council says that while no decision has been made, he did not think it would be a good idea. "We want to encourage tourists to visit and spend their hard earned money here as opposed to looking at raising an additional levy," he said. Cardiff has said it plans to, and Ynys Mon says it is minded to. A decision has not been made in Blaenau Gwent yet, a spokeswoman said. Bridgend has not yet made any decisions over the potential introduction of a visitor levy. A spokesman said: "We understand that the Senedd will be undertaking a final vote on the proposals later this year, and that if approved, local authorities who wish to participate in the proposed scheme will need to carry out public consultation before it can be introduced. "We are awaiting the outcome of this process and will be considering it carefully and in full detail before any final decision is made." The authority doesn't plan to introduce any visitor levy. Cardiff council does plan to introduce the tourism tax, but any date would depend on the outcome of a consultation with residents. This authority says it is currently reviewing the potential introduction of a visitor levy before any formal decision is made. "Once a decision is reached, it will be communicated through the appropriate channels," a spokesperson said. A spokesman said: "Consideration will be given as to whether or not to introduce the visitor levy when the legislation has been finalised. No political decision has been made on this matter to date." A consultation process will be carried out in late 2025 to seek the views of the tourism trade, local residents and visitors. Councillors will then be discussing whether to impose any levy. The final decision will be taken by the full council. This authority said it is yet to make any decision. This authority says it has not yet considered introducing the tax. Chief officer for planning, environment and economy, Andrew Farrow said: "Flintshire County Council has not yet considered whether or not it will implement the proposed visitor levy. The council will want to fully consider the Levy and will weigh up the potential benefits and risks of implementation following consultation with stakeholders in the County including tourism businesses." A spokeswoman said: "Cyngor Gwynedd is currently considering the Welsh Government Bill and is awaiting its approval by the Senedd before full consideration will be given. "If the legislation is passed by the Senedd, the council will consider the implications of the Bill, the opportunities it may create, and the challenges of implementing it. The council will then decide whether to adopt it locally and when that is likely to happen. In the meantime, the council will continue to consult with the sector and our communities through the Gwynedd and Eryri Partnership 2035." Merthyr Tydfil The authority said it will enter a consultation period in July 2025 which will look at: Projected income generation should the levy be introduced Review of current accommodation providers How income would be spent and its intended use Directly consult with the local tourism sector and our local residents Only after that would any decision be made, a spokesperson said. A spokesperson said: "Monmouthshire has no current plans to introduce a visitor levy. Once the legislation is in place, we will work closely with local tourism providers to fully understand the advantages and disadvantages and decide together whether a tourism levy is right for Monmouthshire and how the money raised could improve our County's welcome for visitors." The council has yet to make a decision on the issue, a spokesman said. The authority has no plans to introduce the levy. The council said it will not take steps to introduce the levy in this administration - although it's important to remember the earliest date the law could come into force is 2027, and there are council elections in that year too which could lead to a change in administration. Explaining its decision, deputy leader Paul Miller said tourism is "an important part of the county's economy" "We acknowledge it's important to recognise there's balance to be struck between supporting the industry and dealing with some of the challenges associated with peaks in season. Therefore, I'm confirming it's not our intention to take forward the option of a visitor levy in Pembrokeshire during this administration," he said. Powys The council has not formally considered its position with regard to the visitor levy. A spokesman said: "This is not under consideration in Rhondda Cynon Taf." There are no plans to introduce a visitor levy in Swansea No answer was received to our requests. Vale of Glamorgan The Vale of Glamorgan Council has no plans to pursue a visitor levy at this time. This authority's leader, Cllr Mark Pritchard, said while the final decision would come down to its executive board, it is not something he thinks would benefit the city and council area. "As it stands I would not support the proposal as we want to welcome people to Wrexham without charging them additional taxes on their visit. "The current visitor and tourism economy within Wrexham is growing as a result of many factors including the raised profile we enjoy from the takeover of the football club as well as ongoing local and multi-agency work promoting Wrexham and Wales as a destination. Article continues below "We want to encourage tourists to visit and spend their hard earned money here as opposed to looking at raising an additional levy or tax on their visit that could mean they choose to visit somewhere else and spend their money elsewhere." Ynys Mon Anglesey council's head of service for regulation, Christian Branch said: "The county council is supportive of the principle of the proposed visitor levy. Its potential introduction on Ynys Môn will be informed by Welsh Government guidance, formal local consultation and political decision-making processes. The likely timetable for introducing the levy, if supported, has not yet been determined."
Leader Live
03-06-2025
- Leader Live
A chance to step aboard the Galeón Andalucía in Caernarfon
The Galeón Andalucía is the replica of the ship used by the Spanish during the XVI to XVIII centuries, in the maritime expeditions of discovery and inter-oceanic trade between Spain, America and the Philippines of the so-called fleets of the Indies. The imposing ship, which boasts seven sails, measures 55 metres in length with six decks constructed from iroko and pine wood. During its visit to Caernarfon, visitors will be able to step aboard, wander its decks and talk to crew members. Enthusiasts and photographers have been snapping photos of the majestic vessel. Philip Taylor captured the ship passing Ynys Llanddwyn and Abermenai Point on the way to Caernarfon. Philip Taylor captured the Galeón Andalucía passing Ynys Llanddwyn and Aber Menai point on its way to Caernarfon on May 31 (Image: Philip Taylor) Dewi Roberts visited the ship and explore its decks. He posted on social media: "Galleon Andalucia arriving in Caernarfon for a week - 17th Century Spanish Galleon Replica. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its history (Image: Dewi Roberts) "During a period longer than three centuries (16th to 18th), Galleons were the boats that took the lead role in the trade and cultural routes named the Indies fleets. "These were the longest routes in length and also lasted longer than any other in navigation history." Dewi shared photos from inside the impressive looking ship (Image: Dewi Roberts) Blogger also shared photos. She said: "El Galeón Andalucía has docked at Caernarfon. It's here for a week before heading off to France. It's been touring around the world for a few years it seems. Blogger is planning to pay the historical ship a visit (Image: "I think I'll be heading down for the tour as it looks fascinating." For tickets and further information, click here. The Galeón Andalucía will be docked at Caernarfon pier between May 31 until June 8. Location: Landerne Pier Opening hours: 10am until 8pm. Prices: Children five to 10-years-old: £6 Adults / 10 years plus: £12 Family ticket - two adults and up to three children between five and 10-years-old: £30
North Wales Chronicle
03-06-2025
- North Wales Chronicle
A chance to step aboard the Galeón Andalucía in Caernarfon
The Galeón Andalucía is the replica of the ship used by the Spanish during the XVI to XVIII centuries, in the maritime expeditions of discovery and inter-oceanic trade between Spain, America and the Philippines of the so-called fleets of the Indies. The imposing ship, which boasts seven sails, measures 55 metres in length with six decks constructed from iroko and pine wood. During its visit to Caernarfon, visitors will be able to step aboard, wander its decks and talk to crew members. Enthusiasts and photographers have been snapping photos of the majestic vessel. Philip Taylor captured the ship passing Ynys Llanddwyn and Abermenai Point on the way to Caernarfon. Philip Taylor captured the Galeón Andalucía passing Ynys Llanddwyn and Aber Menai point on its way to Caernarfon on May 31 (Image: Philip Taylor) Dewi Roberts visited the ship and explore its decks. He posted on social media: "Galleon Andalucia arriving in Caernarfon for a week - 17th Century Spanish Galleon Replica. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its history (Image: Dewi Roberts) "During a period longer than three centuries (16th to 18th), Galleons were the boats that took the lead role in the trade and cultural routes named the Indies fleets. "These were the longest routes in length and also lasted longer than any other in navigation history." Dewi shared photos from inside the impressive looking ship (Image: Dewi Roberts) Blogger also shared photos. She said: "El Galeón Andalucía has docked at Caernarfon. It's here for a week before heading off to France. It's been touring around the world for a few years it seems. Blogger is planning to pay the historical ship a visit (Image: "I think I'll be heading down for the tour as it looks fascinating." For tickets and further information, click here. The Galeón Andalucía will be docked at Caernarfon pier between May 31 until June 8. Location: Landerne Pier Opening hours: 10am until 8pm. Prices: Children five to 10-years-old: £6 Adults / 10 years plus: £12 Family ticket - two adults and up to three children between five and 10-years-old: £30
Wales Online
18-05-2025
- Wales Online
Hidden sea caves in Wales look like tropical paradise but there's danger lurking nearby
Hidden sea caves in Wales look like tropical paradise but there's danger lurking nearby The caves in Anglesey have been described as a 'cathedral' with light dancing on the azure water and scattering across rock walls Kayakers explore the 'Electric Blue Cave' in north Wales (Image: Eila Wilkinson Sea Kayaking ) A rugged stretch of coastline on Anglesey boasts some of the best clifftop walks in Wales - the views are breathtaking, and the sea air invigorating. However, for some, the true allure lies beneath. Just around the bend from Rhoscolyn on Holy Island, you'll find a complex network of inlets, fissures and tiny coves carved out by the sea. Beyond the Rhoscolyn headland lie the area's two most notable features, the natural sea arches of Bwa Du (Black Arch) and Bwa Gwyn (White Arch), the latter sculpted from white quartzite rocks. Nestled at the base of the towering cliffs are several caves accessible only by kayak. One such cave, resembling an open mouth with giant fangs, has been dubbed Electric Blue by climbers often spotted scaling the rockface above it. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here . Perhaps the most awe-inspiring is a sea cave locally known as the Blowhole. On a good day, when the weather is calm and sunlight filters in, it feels like stepping into a cathedral, with light dancing on the turquoise water and scattering across the rocky walls. This week, Eila Wilkinson, a kayak guide and coach based in Amlwch, took a group of Swiss visitors to the cave, reports North Wales Live. "I must have visited this cave a million times," she shared. "But this week it was extraordinarily spectacular." Article continues below The brightly coloured Serpent's Cave at Porth y Rhwydau further up the coast (Image: Philip Taylor ) She added: "After entering the cave you come to an open hole at the far end with a shaft of light beaming into the water. With it being so calm, the water was clear and the light turned it emerald. It was absolutely stunning." With 16 years of experience coaching kayakers and running her own business for the past seven, Eila is intimately familiar with every contour of Anglesey's coastline. The Blowhole Cave reveals another marvel when the swells grow and the wind intensifies. "You can hear the hiss of escaping air from small gap in the rock," she said, adding: "It's like a dragon is breathing inside." The coast of Anglesey lays bare millennia of history through its complex layers of folded rock – a feature that has earned it the status of UNESCO Global GeoPark for its significant geological heritage. The shoreline is dotted with peculiar formations, ranging from gargoyle-like rocks to the vividly hued Serpent's Cave at Porth Rhwydau. Climbers are drawn to the cliffs in the area, although further along the coast at The Range, there's currently a six-month ban on all adventure activities. Navigating under Bwa Gwyn (White Arch) at Rhoscolyn headland (Image: Eila Wilkinson Sea Kayaking ) At the Rhoscolyn headland, the most adept climbers are a pair of Kashmiri goats, transplanted from Llandudno's Great Orme. Kayakers who paddle by are often surprised to find these goats perched on cliff ledges, observing the brightly coloured visitors with their buoyant crafts. Generations of goats have made the cliffs their home, introduced with the intention that their grazing would enhance habitats for choughs, the red-legged crows that are among Wales' most emblematic birds. By last year, whispers circulated that one goat had vanished, having been a tad too nonchalant on the cliffs. The remaining goat, presumably feeling lonely, was reported to have started mingling with local sheep. Two new goats were brought in and have since become well-established members of the community, christened Branwen and Seren by schoolchildren from Rhoscolyn. Eila often brings beginner kayakers to this coastal stretch specifically to experience its tidal races. Owing to its rocky geology and tidal range, Holy Island boasts some of the world's finest examples. The tidal races near Rhoscolyn are slightly less intense than those at South and North Stacks. They can be found at Ynysoedd Gwylanod (Seagulls Islands), rocky outcrops where a navigational beacon sits atop the largest to warn vessels of the potential hazards. Paddleboarders tend to avoid this area, it being reserved solely for seasoned kayakers. "The tidal races are notoriously fast and dangerous," said Aila, an expedition leader who has solo circumnavigated Ireland and the Outer Hebrides. "But with a guide, it's a good training ground for novices. If you want to explore the area safely, I'd recommend getting in touch with one of Anglesey's kayak guides. "People come to Anglesey purely to learn about the island's tides, which are amongst the strongest in the world. If you experience them here, you can safely navigate pretty much anywhere." This sentiment echoes what Lord Nelson of Trafalgar once remarked about the Menai Strait. The Anglesey Coastal Path skirts above Blowhole Cave, yet views into its depths are hidden by a towering dry stone wall. The path narrows precariously close to a sheer drop, safeguarded by railings. During stormy weather, the concealed blowhole forcefully ejects mist over the adjacent fields. In the vicinity of Porth Saint, it is believed that St Gwenfaen and her missionary companions first set foot on Anglesey in the 6th century. Hailing from Scotland or perhaps the Isle of Man, she is credited with establishing a religious settlement atop Rhoscolyn Head after scaling the cliffs. A mere half-mile from there, in Rhoscolyn, stands the sole church in Wales dedicated to St Gwenfaen. Once a significant pilgrimage site, Rhoscolyn was originally known as Llanwenfaen (Church of Gwenfaen). Perched on the headland, a short distance of 230 metres from the blowhole, lies St Gwenfaen's well, one of Anglesey's most intact holy wells. Over the past hundred years, it has become synonymous with mental health, a blessing thought to be secured by offering two white pebbles. However, a vigorous stroll or kayak along this dramatic coastline might just be as beneficial for one's mental state. For more information on Eila Wilkinson Sea Kayaking, please visit here. Article continues below
The Irish Sun
17-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
First picture of motorcyclist, 56, killed in horror single-vehicle collision in Antrim as PSNI issue appeal
A MAN who died in a horror single-vehicle crash in Co Antrim on Friday evening has been named. Philip Taylor, 56, tragically passed away at the scene of the fatal incident in the Knockan Road area in Officers and emergency services rushed to the scene after being notified of a "serious road traffic collision" shortly after 6.50pm last night. Tragically, the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 56-year-old motorcyclist was from the Newtownabbey area in the north of The road was closed for some time for investigation, but has since reopened. READ MORE ON PSNI Inspector Cherith Adair, from the Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Police received a report of a serious road traffic collision, involving a motorcycle, in the Knockan Road area, shortly after 6.50pm. "Officers attended, alongside colleagues from our partner emergency services and sadly, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. "He was 56-year-old Philip Taylor from the Newtownabbey area. "The road was closed for some time, but has since reopened. Most read in Irish News "Enquiries are ongoing into the circumstances of the collision, and we would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash-cam or other footage which could assist us." Those with information are asked to call them on 101, quoting reference 1625 of 16/5/25. Gardai and RSA measures aimed at driving crash deaths on Irish roads Alternatively, they can make a report online on their official website by using their 'Make a report' section. Separately, The incident happened on the Monaghan Road in the It is understood that the man who was riding his bicycle was pronounced dead at the scene. He has been named by the PSNI as Paddy McDonald, 62, from the Castleblayney area of County The road was closed for several hours afterwards but has since reopened. The They have appealed for any witnesses who may have seen the collision or have dash cam, or any other video footage to contact them immediately. 1 Philip Taylor tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle traffic collision Credit: PSNI Press
