A DECISION has been made to delay the controversial tourist tax in BCP until September.

In response to the recent appeal from BCP hoteliers, against the introduction of the levy, the Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) has made the decision to postpone the introduction of the tax.

It comes after hoteliers earlier this week questioned the ballot process, saying it was 'rushed through.'

Rosie Radwell, chair of BCP ABID, said in a statement: "As with any new and innovative project, questions and anomalies arise that need to be addressed to achieve the Accommodations BID's goal: ensuring Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole remains a top visitor destination in the UK.

"We recognise the diversity of accommodation providers within our area, each with unique business models and clientele.

"While an appeal has been submitted, and it is inappropriate to comment in detail here, we remain confident in the integrity of the ballot and its adherence to the regulations.

"The Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole ABID, the first Coastal Accommodation BID in the country, is pioneering the way for destinations like ours.

"This process has been challenging due to the diverse range of hotels in the area, and finding a 'one size fits all' solution has been complex.

"We are actively listening to accommodation providers and considering their feedback all the time.

"Many accommodation providers, regardless of their stance on the Accommodation BID, would prefer to delay the levy collection arrangements until the appeal result is determined.

"Taking this feedback into consideration, the ABID Board met today and voted to delay levy collection until the outcome of the appeal, expected by the end of September 2024.

"We have written to all ABID Accommodation Providers informing them of the decision, detailing exactly how this will work and would like to take this opportunity to highlight that it is only the levy collection arrangements and the visitor charge that are being paused whilst the appeal is determined.

"This does not affect the validity of the ABID or the need for the important work that it will carry out."

Rosie added: "This decision reflects our commitment to flexibility and our responsiveness to the voices of accommodation providers in the area.

"Once resolved, we will ensure all relevant processes are in place to make the Accommodation BID a driving force for positive change in our area."

Graham Farrant, Chief Executive of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said:

“We continue to work alongside our ABID accommodation providers in BCP as they develop the introduction of a levy, and the council supports the ABID Board in their efforts to enhance the destination’s tourism offering.

“Enabling the community to have greater say in growing the local visitor economy remains fully aligned to the Council’s Corporate Plan strategic aims and objectives.”