A PROPOSED tourist tax for visitors to the BCP Area has stirred mixed opinions from residents and holidaymakers.

The plans would see about 70 businesses introduce a visitor charge of around £2 per night.

This charge is anticipated to raise around £2 million every year, which will be invested back into the area.

The plans have been drawn up by a shadow board with representatives from the hotel sector, the BH Area Hospitality Association (BAHA), the Destination Management Board (DMB), the four existing BIDs and the BCP Council.

The Echo headed out to speak to residents and tourists and find out what they think.

Sofia Thomas-Tudo from Dorchester said: "I think an extra tax is something people won't appreciate right now.

"There are pros and cons to the idea, but it could ultimately deter people from wanting to come on holiday in Bournemouth."

Bournemouth Echo: Charlotte Andrew-Autha and Sofia Thomas-Tudo

Charlotte Andrew-Autha, also from Dorchester and works in Bournemouth, said: "I understand why the tourist tax might be useful to the town, but people are struggling through a cost-of-living crisis, and it could end up having a negative effect on the area."

A report by Andrew Emery, BCP Council's strategic development manager for planning and destination, said that the accommodation BID (ABID) should start with a five-year term.

Mr Emery said the purpose of the charge is to "support growth" in the visitor economy, which the conurbation benefits from, particularly during the summer.

Caroline and Steve Skeldon often take holidays travelling from the Midlands to Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.

Bournemouth Echo: Steve and Caroline Skeldon

They said: "We visit the area a couple of times a year because it is a beautiful part of the country and there is so much to do.

"A tourist tax wouldn't necessarily put us off coming back. However, if we came down with all our family for more than one night, the money would soon add up.

"The car parking in the area is so expensive, so if we pay more to visit, it would be nice to see that cost reduced."

Jill Evans, from Winchester, said: "I would still come down to Bournemouth if there were a tax for tourists.

"I would want to see the funds being allocated for things that would benefit tourists.

"I don't think £2 is masses of money, and I probably wouldn't notice the extra charge."

Barbara Urbani and Patricia Baker from Surrey said that the tax could impact the families of students in the area, saying that it would mean that people would have to spend a lot more money to visit their children and grandchildren.