Following a service review of West Dorset’s tourist information centres (TICs) to identify operational savings of £300,000, it was agreed by members of the district council’s executive committee in August this year to transfer the running of the Bridport TIC and its current staff to the town council.
The official transfer took place on 1 January 2017.
Mary Penfold, Enabling Portfolio Holder for West Dorset District Council, said:
“We have enjoyed a very close working relationship with the town council for a number of years, so we’re delighted to be able to work together again to ensure the future delivery of the TIC and its services. We recognise the value the service provides both to local residents and visitors.”
Extensive stakeholder engagement was carried out as part of the review and Bridport Town Council expressed an interest in taking over the management of the TIC at an early stage.
Cllr Sarah Williams, Leader of Bridport Town Council, said:
“This is a very exciting opportunity for the Town Council, to take on the running of the TIC, which is such an important service for the town. We are confident that we can not only maintain the existing service level, but implement initiatives that will enhance services for visitors and for local people.”
As part of the agreement, the district council will transfer £150,000 from its reserves to the town council to assist them with transitional arrangements.
The transfer of the service to the town council will be a change of operator only. It will not lead to any reduction in the service provided, it remains in the same location, offering the same services and employing the same workforce.
