New Funding Model Proposed For Isle Of Wight Tourism

Visit Isle of Wight is proposing changes to the way businesses fund tourism promotion through the next Wight BID.

Under plans for Wight BID 3, different sectors would pay different levy rates rather than the current standard 1.75%.

Ferry and other transport operators, along with car parks, would face a 6% levy, while attractions would pay 5%.

Accommodation providers and marinas would pay 2.25%, entertainment and leisure businesses 2%, while the rate for food and drink businesses would remain frozen at 1.75%.

Visit Isle of Wight says the changes are intended to protect smaller businesses while raising more money for destination marketing and support for the Island's visitor economy.

The Isle of Wight Council agreed earlier this month to progress the legal process needed for a ballot.

A full business plan is due to be published at the end of August, before businesses vote on the proposals in October.

Visit Isle of Wight chief executive Dominic Wray said the organisation wanted to create a more sustainable funding model for the next five years.