New Policy Lab launched to help York and North Yorkshire thrive

York St John University is proud to be supporting new work to place robust, community-focused research at the heart of regional policy development.

David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire’s vision is to help communities to thrive, making the region a place of aspiration and ambition for all. To make this happen, the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and York St John University have launched a new Policy Lab.

This new partnership will bring together local knowledge, research and ideas to develop practical policies that make a real difference to people and places across the region. 

The Policy Lab combines the academic expertise and civic mission of York St John University with the YNYCA’s commitment to delivering policy developed by and for the region. Together, the partnership will look at key challenges and opportunities for the region to support inclusive growth and stronger communities.

David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

"York and North Yorkshire is full of brilliant people, world-class ideas and real ambition.

"The Policy Lab brings communities, universities and businesses together to spark new thinking, solve problems and turn great ideas into action. 

"It’s about practical change that strengthens our region and improves life for everyone.” 

At yesterday’s launch (Tuesday 18 November), attendees heard from Mayor Skaith, and Professor Karen Bryan OBE, Vice Chancellor of York St John University.

Also, addressing the invited audience was Professor Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School at York St John University, Professor of Tourism Geographies and the academic lead for the Policy Lab. Professor Paddison shared early findings of the first policy being researched – the development and potential implementation a visitor levy across York and North Yorkshire.

Early findings include:  

• In 2024, more than 41.4 million people visited York and North Yorkshire, of these 7.8 million people stayed overnight.
• Tourism contributed an estimated £6.2 billion to the regional economy

Modelling flat-rate systems used elsewhere in the UK, early estimates indicate a tourism levy would generate:

• £26.1 million per year at £1 per night across York and North Yorkshire
• £52.2 million per year at £2 per night across York and North Yorkshire

Professor Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School, York St John University said:

“We’re proud to be working in partnership on the new Policy Lab, which places robust, community-focused research at the heart of policy development. By exploring the needs, priorities and lived experiences of local residents, we’re helping to shape evidence-led solutions.    

"With over 41 million visitors to York and North Yorkshire in 2024 and tourism contributing £6.2 billion to the local economy, there’s a clear opportunity to ensure that growth is sustainable and inclusive. A visitor levy that potentially raises up to £52 million annually could help fund vital infrastructure, protect our natural environment, and ensure the benefits of tourism are shared fairly across all communities.”  

The Policy Lab will initially focus on four key areas of regional importance:

• Developing and implementing a visitor levy across York and North Yorkshire
• Mapping and scoping a coastal deprivation strategy to tackle inequalities and unlock opportunities along the coast
• Exploring the right to request devolution of rural affairs functions from DEFRA, to give rural communities greater control over local decisions
• Investigating more flexible, locally tailored approaches to business rates that encourage enterprise and sustainable economic growth

Image (l-r) 

Professor Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School, York St John University; Professor Karen Bryan OBE, Vice Chancellor of York St John University; David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.