Bristol News by HANA - Edition 62
Bristol Bites: taxing times for “tourists”
From our editor:
The West of England Combined Authority is set to become the West of England Combine Harvester - of a new tax.
WECA is delighted that Chancellor Rachel Reeves has “empowered” local authorities to implement an overnight visitor levy - widely known as a “tourist tax”.
Council bigwigs in the region fell over each other to gush about the levy. They are pleased they will have the ability to raise revenue through a “small charge” on overnight stays.
WECA mayor, Helen Godwin, claimed: “These new powers are a real vote of confidence in our region taking more control of our future.”
Ms Godwin added: “Proceeds from an overnight visitor levy… have the potential to support and enhance the sector’s businesses and workers - including with better transport options.”
A breathtaking statement that veers sharply from preposterous to utter hogwash. Better transport options? Really? Hotel workers leaping for joy because they feel supported and enhanced? Hilarious.
Let’s ask a few questions:
What amounts to a “small charge”? Will it rise with inflation? Or even higher?
Will it be charged as a percentage of a hotel bill? If so, will it be 5%, 10% or some other random number? Or, perhaps more likely, will it be a flat rate tax? In which case, someone staying at the Bristol Holiday Inn may have to pay the same as someone bedding down at, for example, the swanky Clayton Hotel in the city.
Will it vary in different parts of the region? If so, how? Hotel star ratings?
Will it apply to pubs with a few rooms? Will it apply to Bed & Breakfast establishments run by a retired couple?
Describing this proposed levy as a “tourist tax” may be a neat alliteration, but it’s deeply disingenuous. What about business visitors from the tech arc (which includes Bristol, Oxford and Cambridge)? They’re not tourists, they’re helping to boost our economy. What about parents visiting their daughter at Bristol University? Tourists? No.
What about administrative costs? What about any inkling of likely revenue? Will eye-wateringly expensive consultants be hired (WECA has form for this) to pluck some numbers from thin air?
When - if at all - will this levy be introduced? The best guess at the moment appears to be in “the next few years”.
Instead of rolling out a mayor and no fewer than four council leaders to wax lyrical about this levy on the WECA website, perhaps the authority might have adopted a more considered tone.
Rather than make speculative claims about the tax’s “potential” to help deliver “better transport”, WECA should have, perhaps, politely welcomed our embattled Chancellor’s initiative, but acknowledged that many questions need to be answered before the “tourist tax” gets off the ground.
And as for the notion of “the sector’s businesses” sticking up the bunting at the prospect of their guests being hit with a new tax? Well, that’s up there with pub landlords rolling out the barrel when the Chancellor raises duty on booze.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
Sometimes cold, hard data defies logic. Happiness is a slippery concept but it’s worth looking at the numbers. Our Data Box below suggests that Bristolians are, on average, unhappier than people living in other local authority areas. Not by much, but it's surprising that this city is not way above average on the happiness scale.
Bristol is one of the best places in Britain to live. Magnificent architecture and engineering, fringed by rolling Downs and magical woodlands. A rapidly developing tech hub, supported by brilliant universities. Populated by (largely) cool and kind people. A thriving social scene.
So cheer up, Brizzle!
Anxiety (score out of 10). Bristol: 3.4. National average as of 2023: 3.3. Close but still room to chill a bit more
Feeling life is worthwhile (score out of 10). Bristol: 7.3. National average as of 2023: 7.8. Not a yawning gap but a significant one, nonetheless
Happiness (score out of 10). Bristol: 7.2. National average as of 2013: 7.4. Not much in it, but there are definitely many unhappier places than beautiful Bristol
Life satisfaction (score out of 10). Bristol: 7.3. National average as of 2023: 7.5. Again, not too far behind but one would expect Bristol to be well above the median
As my daughter used to say: “Turn that frown upside down.”
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Best Articles From Bristol This Week
as chosen by our editors
Van dwellers to be moved from Bristol's Clifton Downs next week Bbc - The city council is tackling homelessness through a dual approach: compassionate outreach to connect individuals with vital resources, and legal action to maintain safe public spaces. This strategy aims to balance the needs of those experiencing homelessness with the overall well-being of the community, fostering improved outcomes for everyone involved. |
Cosy Bristol city centre pubs that Christmas market shoppers should visit Yahoo News - November 28, 2025 Warm up after a day of Christmas shopping at Bristol's charming pubs, like The Christmas Steps with its cosy fireplaces and local drinks, or The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer, known for its historic ambience and expansive draught selection. For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere, The Shakespeare Tavern offers affordability and festive cheer, while The Ostrich provides a riverside retreat with award-winning beers, and The Bank Tavern focuses on celebrating local brewing craftsmanship. |
Whiteladies Road in Bristol to close for nearly two weeks BBC News - November 28, 2025 Whiteladies Road in Bristol will close between Queens Road and Tyndalls Park Road for nearly two weeks starting in early December for drainage investigatory works aimed at flood prevention. While various bus services will be diverted, pedestrian access will remain open, with the southbound lane expected to reopen by December 13 and full road operations resuming by year-end. |
Car-limiting urban planning hits roadblocks in UK In Bristol, a clash over car culture and environmental sustainability has sparked protests as advocates push for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and enhanced public transport to combat pollution. This tension reflects broader societal debates about balancing environmental responsibility with individual freedoms and the economic concerns of local businesses. |
University of Bristol to build data processing facility next door to Isambard-AI Exeter College at Oxford University is launching a new High-Performance Computing campus to boost research capabilities and support advanced computational projects across various disciplines. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and innovation in fields like artificial intelligence, climate modelling, and bioinformatics, ensuring the college remains at the forefront of scientific research. |
Body found in search for Llanelli man missing in Bristol Bbc - November 24, 2025 Avon and Somerset Police have recovered a body from a waterway in Bristol while searching for 28-year-old Rehaan, who went missing after a night out. Although the death is being treated as unexplained, authorities do not suspect foul play, and a file will be prepared for the coroner. |
November: AI and 5G unite bringing sports fans closer to the action than ever before Bristol - November 25, 2025 Project ARANA, a collaboration between the University of Bristol’s Smart Internet Lab, Madevo, and Weaver Labs, is set to revolutionise fan experiences at large venues like the MK Dons stadium with cutting-edge innovations such as AI-driven insights, real-time statistics, and seamless connectivity through 5G technology. Launching trials early next year, this initiative aims to tackle network congestion while enhancing live sports engagement through interactive digital services. |
Royel Otis have announced some 2026 UK headline tour dates, including Bristol Sounds Dork - November 24, 2025 Royel Otis is hitting the UK this June for a headline tour, following their sold-out shows in London and Manchester. Catch them live at venues across Dublin, Birmingham, Halifax, and Liverpool, including a special performance at Anfield Stadium alongside Foo Fighters! |
Eddie Kinuthia killer Zachariah Talbert-Young jailed for 34 years BBC News - November 25, 2025 Zachariah Talbert-Young, 27, has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of 19-year-old Eddie Kinuthia during a community event in Bristol, with the attack linked to gang rivalry. In addition to the murder, Talbert-Young was also convicted of attempting to murder another teenager while on bail, and he will serve a minimum of 34 years. |
November: University of Bristol to develop new ‘British Library’ for the AI age A new data repository will be established next to the Isambard-AI supercomputer in Bristol, enhancing its capabilities and supporting the UK Government's AI for Science Strategy by providing rapid access to large-scale datasets for researchers. This initiative aims to position the UK as a leader in AI research, create jobs, and boost the regional tech sector. |
Sport
Bristol Bears
Let’s get the bad news out of the way first. The Bears lost 22-17 away to Exeter last Saturday in the English PREM Rugby Cup. Tight game and tough luck. The defeat means that Bristol are unlikely to progress to the semi-finals. They lie bottom of pool A on a meagre six points. Only the top two in each of two groups progress.
The PREM Cup is a mixed blessing. Yes, it gives game time to Bears players on the fringes. But the hard hitters are either on international duty or rested. Four matches to go. But it’s difficult to see Bristol going further in the competition.
On the international front, Mr Bristol (Ellis Genge) put in a hefty shift for England in their hard-fought 27-23 win over a dangerous Argentina. Meanwhile, fellow Bear Louis Rees-Zammit scored yet another wonder try (see picture below) for Wales in a 26-52 losing cause against New Zealand.
Next up for the Bears? Table toppers Northampton Saints at Ashton Gate in the league (Saturday 29 November, 5.45pm).
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It’s a flying Bear. Louis Rees-Zammit scores a spectacular try for Wales, with a similarly airborne New Zealander for rather rough company.
Bristol City
Oh dear. The trip to Wrexham was always going to be tough, but a 2-0 defeat is difficult to swallow, particularly after a resounding 3-0 win against another Welsh opponent in the shape of Swansea.
It seemed like the Robins were on a roll. But the boys in red have slipped to seventh place in the Championship - a place off the play-offs.
Next up? Portsmouth away (Saturday 29 November, 12.30pm).
Bristol Rovers
When the head coach describes Rovers as being in a “negative place”, you know your team is in trouble. Darrell Clarke (Pirate-in-Chief) was not easily confused with a ray of sunshine after a 1-0 away defeat against lowly Cheltenham last Saturday.
The Pirates have now lost seven games on the bounce in League Two. They lie just two points off the relegation zone.
Captain Clarke may soon find himself walking the plank unless results improve.
Property news
Home scheme in Bristol breaks ground UK Property Forums - November 25, 2025 Construction has officially begun at Baltic Wharf in Bristol, a joint venture between The Hill Group and Goram Homes, set to deliver 166 new homes—including 66 affordable units—along with commercial spaces and vibrant public areas. This development aims to enhance community connectivity by reestablishing links between the River Avon and the Floating Harbour. |
This is breath taking: One of Bristol's most iconic houses is for sale and it has a 40ft kitchen/dining room! Discover an exceptional 6-bedroom family home for sale at The Promenade, Clifton, featuring a stunning 40ft open-plan kitchen and dining area, a dedicated gym, and a cinema room. This stylish property perfectly combines modern luxury with comfort, making it an ideal choice for vibrant family living! |
Bristol park to get major upgrade thanks to nearly £700K investment Yahoo News - November 25, 2025 Bristol City Council is investing £680,000 to upgrade St George Park's play equipment and skate park, addressing safety concerns and enhancing facilities for older children. This initiative, part of a broader £1.1 million project funded by the community infrastructure levy, aims to foster community engagement and inclusive play spaces, with improvements expected to be completed by 2028. |
Properties for sale in Bristol for less than £100K Bristol Live - November 23, 2025 Finding affordable properties in Bristol is a challenge, with average prices soaring; however, options under £100,000 do exist, including a two-bedroom apartment in Kingsdown and a studio flat ideal for first-time buyers. These listings, along with others like a three-bedroom house in Kingswood needing modernisation, offer potential opportunities for budget-conscious buyers. |
Bristol family use 150,000 lights to create dazzling at-home Christmas display Metro - November 26, 2025 Ricky and Chrissie Fenning's Winterbourne Wonderland in Bristol dazzles with over 150,000 lights and charming themed zones, including animatronic butterflies and a snowy wilderness, all to support local charities. With the official switch-on on November 22, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead due to road closures, while festive updates also highlight Tesco Clubcard tips and McDonald's limited-edition Christmas menu items. |
Unite Group flags lower 2026 earnings on weak student housing demand, shares slump TradingView - November 27, 2025 Unite Group (UTG) has warned of a 7-10% drop in adjusted earnings per share for 2026 due to declining student occupancy and rental income, hitting its shares to a decade-low, while rival Empiric Student Property (ESP) also reported reduced occupancy linked to fewer reservations from Chinese students. Despite these challenges, Unite's £634 million acquisition of ESP received approval from the UK's competition authority, with the company projecting modest rental growth of 2-3%. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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