The City of York Council has proposed an idea for ‘tap to donate’ points to be added to the historic city walls to aid with their upkeep.

However, some York residents have expressed dismay that they are being asked to contribute after seeing a council tax increase of 4.99 percent.

Responding to a Facebook post by York Mix, they shared their opinions in the comments.
One said: “Hold on. Council tax has just gone up now you want us to look after the bar walls on top? What kind of absolute morons do we have making these decisions?”

While another said: “It’s hard not to get annoyed when get slapped with the maximum council tax rise & you see how everything’s geared up for tourists.”

However, other commenters spoke about introducing a tourist tax.

One reader said: “I definitely think it’s time for COYC [City of York Council] to seriously take a look at introducing a tourist tax.”

In agreement, another said: “Tax the tourist you get enough out of us with council tax.”
A visitor levy, also known as a tourist tax, has been a heavily debated idea within York to further the protection of York’s heritage sites.

In a Decision Meeting, York Council stated they are aware of the public outrage that was caused by the proposal of this idea.

Councillor Peter Kilbane said he has “an interest in maintaining the walls” and “regularly uses them to commute.”

Many other tourist cities, such as Prague, Venice, Barcelona, and Edinburgh, have introduced a tourist tax, which is typically added to hotel bills.

Following the council meeting it has been decided that there will be a six month trial with two ‘tap to pay’ spots being added to Bootham Bar.