Martin Webb – Best Sussex Mayor to Introduce “Modest Visitor Charge” for Tourists.
Martin Webb, local businessman, philanthropist, and Independent candidate for Sussex Mayor, has unveiled a bold yet practical policy designed to protect local taxpayers while strengthening the county’s economy: a “modest visitor charge” for tourists staying in Sussex.
Webb, already being described by supporters as “the Best Mayor for Sussex”, believes the proposal is both fair and necessary. He argues that while tourism brings vitality to Sussex’s economy, the hidden costs of hosting millions of visitors are being unfairly shouldered by local residents.
“Visitors bring a lot of business to Sussex – and we’re proud of that,” Webb said in a recent statement. “Tourism supports thousands of jobs and keeps our high streets vibrant.
But it also brings added costs. Cleaning beaches, emptying bins, maintaining toilets, and repairing infrastructure all fall to councils – and right now, council taxpayers are picking up the bill, even when they don’t directly benefit. That’s not fair.”
The proposed visitor charge would be added to hotel and Airbnb bills for each night stayed in Sussex. Webb points to Manchester, where a similar scheme is already delivering results, with funds ring-fenced and reinvested back into local services.
“A Sussex visitor charge could generate millions of pounds every year,” Webb continued. “That money would ease the burden on households, while ensuring our towns and beaches remain clean, safe, and welcoming. The charge could be set locally, flexible by season and demand, and at a modest level that won’t deter visitors — just ensure they contribute fairly to the county they love.”
A Candidate with Proven Experience.
Webb’s credentials as a business leader give him unique insight into the balance between supporting enterprise and protecting residents. Having managed some of Brighton’s best-known venues — including the Funky Buddha Lounge, Zap Club, Beach Club, Greens Bar, Polar Bar and the Leak and Winkle — Webb became one of the largest employers in the city, overseeing more than 300 staff at his peak.
That experience, he says, taught him not only how to grow businesses, but how to manage costs, create jobs, and deliver value for money — lessons he now wants to bring to Sussex’s local government.
A Wider Vision for Sussex.
But the visitor charge is only one part of Webb’s broader vision. With the mayoral election looming in May 2026, Webb has been setting out a detailed agenda across the county:
Relieve the tax burden on residents by introducing fairer funding models and cutting waste in council budgets.
Strengthen Sussex’s economy by encouraging residents to shop locally and supporting small businesses.
Protect our countryside by prioritising brownfield development over greenfield destruction, safeguarding the unique landscapes that make Sussex special.
Keep Sussex safe by launching a Sussex Marshall Service, enabling local people to take a direct role in community safety and pride.
Invest in people and place by ensuring that revenue raised through tourism is reinvested in local services, public spaces, and infrastructure.
Leadership for a Changing Sussex.
Webb insists that Sussex needs leadership that is both imaginative and practical. He frames himself as a candidate capable of standing up for local people, free from party politics and guided instead by common sense and community spirit.
“Sussex deserves better. We need leadership that values every pound of taxpayers’ money, that recognises the pressures on families and businesses, and that isn’t afraid to make bold choices. A modest visitor charge is one of those choices — fair, effective, and proven to work elsewhere. As Mayor, I will make sure Sussex residents come first.”
As the race towards May 2026 heats up, Martin Webb is rapidly positioning himself as the Independent voice of Sussex: a candidate blending business know-how with community values, determined to deliver a fairer, safer, and more prosperous county.
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