Political opinion: Peter Lamb MP welcomes new powers to reinvest tourism revenue into Crawley

Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, has welcomed new legislation introduced by the Labour Government that could provide additional investment for local high streets, public spaces and attractions, ensuring communities benefit more directly from visitors to their area.

The Visitor Levy Bill would give mayors and local leaders the power to introduce a modest charge on overnight accommodation, with money raised reinvested in the local area.

For Crawley, home to Gatwick Airport and a significant number of hotels and hospitality businesses, the proposals could provide an opportunity to secure additional investment in the town's infrastructure, public spaces and local economy.

Any funding raised could help improve town centres, support local businesses, enhance public transport and invest in the facilities that benefit residents and visitors alike. Importantly, the levy would not be introduced automatically. Local leaders would decide whether to implement one, with businesses and residents consulted before any decision is made.

The Government has also confirmed that the levy would be calculated as a percentage of accommodation costs rather than a flat fee, ensuring that those staying in more affordable accommodation pay proportionately less.

Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley said: "Crawley is in a unique position as the home of Gatwick Airport, with millions of people travelling through our area every year. Our hotels, restaurants and hospitality businesses already play an important role in supporting the local economy and providing employment opportunities for residents, and this new legislation would ensure it is that our town and all its residents see the benefits of that economic activity.

"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. Of course, we must also recognise the pressures facing our hospitality industry. Any proposals must be developed in close consultation with local businesses, ensuring that they are fair, proportionate and support Crawley's economic competitiveness.

"Ultimately, this is about giving local communities a greater say over how investment is raised and spent. I welcome the Government's commitment to ensuring that more of the economic benefits generated locally can be reinvested back into our communities."