Oxford City Council is facilitating work with accommodation providers – including hotels and colleges – to explore how the city can better manage the effects of tourism while ensuring it remains a vibrant and popular place for residents and visitors.
Following an initial feasibility study and an independent report from The Mosaic Partnership in 2024, the Council now plans to appoint a consultant to help set up two task groups to explore the different options for the sector.
Supporting the next stage of this work could help identify projects and potential funding streams, including whether an Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) is appropriate and supported.
An ABID is not a tourist tax. Unlike models used in other countries, an ABID is a business-led initiative where accommodation providers decide whether to establish it and how the funds are spent. The levy is collected under Business Improvement District legislation, and funds would be controlled by the ABID board, not Oxford City Council or any other statutory or government body.
Initial research suggests that an ABID could unlock up to £10 million for additional projects, depending on criteria set by the task groups.
The Council will facilitate the next stage of the project with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), however it will have no say in whether any option is pursued, the final decision or how any money could be spent.
Comment
“Oxford’s accommodation sector plays a vital role in our city’s economy. Supporting the next stage of this project will give them the opportunity to shape projects and funding streams that work for them.
“This is a business-led initiative, and ultimately it will be up to accommodation providers whether to move forward or not, but it has the potential to unlock a lot of money to support them and make improvements that will benefit everyone.”
Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Planning and Culture
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