SOUTH Lakes MP Tim Farron says he believes there is a groundswell of opinion backing the introduction of a “tourist tax” in the Lakes.

Mr Farron sent out a survey in September to residents in Cumbria to hear their views on the idea of a tourist tax coming to the county.

Overall, 65 per cent were in favour of the levy and Mr Farron was interested to see people’s opinions and feedback on the matter.

"We have received around 635 written responses, this does not include telephone calls or face to face conversations, but many have provided me with important feedback and issues that they feel could be resolved if this tax was introduced,” he said.

Issues that were raised by those who took part in the survey included the urgent need for roads to be re-done, protection of public environment such as landscape and right of way passages as well the creation of more public car parks.

Mr Farron is cautious to implement a tourist tax but wants to remain open minded about the idea and see whether it would have public support.

“I am in favour of the tourist tax as long as it is the right system but to impose a bed tax as a fee is too intrusive and unfair and I believe this is what many thought the tourist tax would be if it came to Cumbria.”

Lake District hotelier Jonathan Denby agrees with the MP that a bed tax is unjust and says that there is a limit to how much can be contributed.

“We need to find a way to make the home system fair. In the hospitality industry we are currently taxed to the hilt and to add a bed tax on top is just too much” he said.

Mr Denby also added that ‘Airbnb’, an online market place which lets people rent out their properties or spare rooms to guests, should pay a licence fee.

He said: “It is unfair that their charges avoid the taxes which other businesses have to pay. They should pay their fair share.