New tourist information centre set to open in Norwich
Thousands of pounds have been committed to the development
A new £100,000 tourist information centre is set to open in Norwich this summer in a bid to boost the city’s holiday sector.
Norwich City Council has committed thousands of pounds to the development following the closure of the tourist centre in the Forum in 2021.
This comes as the authority faces “tough financial challenges”, having agreed to hike council tax by nearly 3%.
This means people living in Band D properties will see their bill rise to £297.22, paying an extra £8.63 a year – although those receiving council tax support will continue to receive a 100% reduction.
Liberal Democrat councillor James Wright, who proposed the new centre, said: “Tourism is one of Norfolk’s largest economic sectors.
“We cannot afford to miss out on this opportunity to promote to visitors the city’s wealth of leisure, culture and heritage opportunities. This is an investment in the future of the city.”
He has suggested a market stall, or a space in City Hall, could make a good home for the centre.
Officers said that while the council continues to face financial challenges – blamed on a “sustained period of austerity” and increased demand for services – its ambition remains “undiminished”.