A review of how Liverpool’s tourist information centre (TIC) can operate more effectively is expected to be completed within the next six months.
Fears arose during Liverpool Council’s budget setting process the centre could close after running for almost four years at a deficit. The centre’s budget was cut by the local authority back in 2019.
Concerns swirled around the potential loss of jobs with many tour operators telling the ECHO of the need to maintain a specialist offer in the city. The council confirmed in February the centre will continue to operate at Liverpool ONE while a review of the operating model is completed.
READ MORE: Olivia gunman's weapon may have malfunctioned in Joseph Nee 'struggle', court hears
In a written update to councillors ahead of this evening’s culture and visitor economy meeting at Liverpool Town Hall, cabinet member, Cllr Harry Doyle, set out a timescale he expects the review of the service to be completed by.
He wrote: “Setting this year’s budget was extremely difficult and members may remember that the budget for the tourist information centre was removed in 2019, but continued to remain open which meant it was running at a deficit. As part of setting the budget, it was a relief that the Tourist Information Service at Liverpool ONE is to continue operating while a review of the operating model is completed.
“The aim is to create a fit for purpose offer that is supported by the private sector. Following positive discussions, Liverpool ONE is to provide funding while a review is carried out, which will be completed by September.” Earlier this year, Theresa Grant, interim city council chief executive said the authority was keen to keep the TIC open despite it operating at a deficit and a way to “dramatically” bring costs down.
Cllr Doyle added: “I believe that as one of the most popular visitor destinations in the country it is vital we have a modern tourist information offer that enhances the experience of people coming to our city. We were determined to find a positive way forward for the tourist information service and I am grateful to Liverpool ONE for agreeing to work with us to develop a service that is supported by the private sector.
“I’d also like to thank the staff for their continued commitment during what has been a very uncertain period over the last few years, but despite this, worked throughout the pandemic supporting the Council and our communities through Covid.”
Speaking to the ECHO last month when the continuation of the service was confirmed, Iain Finlayson, estate director at Liverpool ONE, said: “As a city region Liverpool welcomed as many as 66m visitors in a single year, spending a total of almost £5bn pre-pandemic.
“In building back towards these numbers it is imperative that we have a Tourist Information Centre presence in the city centre as part of an integrated visitor welcome strategy across the region. We are pleased to hear that Liverpool Council are to reconsider any closure plans and look forward to discussing with them and the wider visitor economy potential long-term solutions with a view to the retention of the city’s tourist information centre.”
The countdown has officially started. Join our Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool Facebook group
READ NEXT
Man drugged schoolgirl and took her to a park to rape her
Backlash against Liverpool Council after Airbnb announcement
Thomas Cashman told police 'yous are stitching me up' after Olivia murder arrest
Liverpool John Lennon Airport: 'Cheapest' destination with £2 beer and £56 flights
Witness 'laughs' at claims her boyfriend owed Thomas Cashman £25k
