North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has welcomed the Government announcement that England's mayors will be able to introduce 'tourist taxes' on overnight stays.

Under the new plans, mayors will have the power to bring in a visitor levy applied to overnight accommodation.

The new charge, announced by the Government, is designed to help mayors raise funds for investing in transport, infrastructure, and tourism-related projects.

The levy would apply to visitors staying in hotels, bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and holiday lets.

Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, said: "Tourists travel from near and far to visit England’s brilliant cities and regions.

"We’re giving our mayors powers to harness this and put more money into local priorities, so they

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