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Tourist Info Centre saved

by Tom Rowley
7/ 5/2008

GLOSSOP Tourist Information Centre has been granted a stay of execution following a successful six-month trial.

High Peak Borough Council has agreed to continue the service indefinitely after it "exceeded all expectations" during the trial period.

There were concerns last year that visitors to the town would have no where to go for local tourist advice.

This followed a dispute between the town’s tourist association and the heritage centre, which shared premises on Henry Street.

However, at the 11th hour High Peak Council stepped in and the service — which had been due to end on 30 September — was reprieved.

In addition, opening hours will be extended to six days-a-week during the summer, opening from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

A council spokeswoman said: "It is hoped that residents as well as visitors to the town will benefit from these additional hours.

"In addition to the large amount of free literature and brochures, a wide range of guidebooks for walkers and cyclists, maps, local history books, postcards, local honey and a range of Kendal Mint Cake are on sale, as well as a wide range of work from local artists.Also, each autumn the centre creates and stocks a unique calendar of Glossop.  Upstairs, the Heritage Trust has frequently changing exhibitions on display alongside work from local artists. Why not pop in and see for yourself and pick up a free copy of the latest High Peak mini guide, ‘Great Days Out’?"

Staff at the Henry Street centre have also been receiving training on relevant databases and can supply information on events, public transport and accommodation.

The centre is also an agent for Wayfarer tickets and Woodward’s excursions.