First of Scarborough's new 'wayfinding' signs installed
Work has begun to install new wayfinding signs in Scarborough.
Work has begun to install new wayfinding signs in Scarborough.
Known as ‘totems’ or finger posts, the signs are common in big towns and cities to help visitors get their bearings or to find local information.
The first totems, which feature a map of the area they are in, as well as helpful information like walking times to nearby attractions, have been placed on Foreshore Road with others to follow over the coming weeks.
They will be complemented with digital kiosks and are designed to help visitors navigate their way from arrival points such as the railway station, through the town centre and to the seafront.
Alongside the physical signage, a new wayfinding app for use on smart phones is being developed.
It will offer guided trails and interactive games to encourage visitors to explore and discover more of Scarborough’s rich heritage and culture.
The app will showcase the key entertainment venues, attractions and places of interest.
The wayfinding signs are part of wider improvements to Scarborough town centre which will include the planting of new trees along Westborough and Newborough. There will also be new seating.
The improvements are the result of a joint initiative between Scarborough Borough Council, Scarborough Town Centre Team and Scarborough Town Deal board.
Cllr Jim Grieve, Scarborough Borough Council cabinet member with responsibility for quality of life, said:
“I am delighted to see the first of our new totem signs being installed.
“They will provide important local information for visitors. Combined with the new way finding app, we will be able to promote more of what Scarborough has to offer.
“This initiative is just one of the exciting ways we are improving Scarborough and building back a stronger tourism economy post-Covid.”
Richard Grunwell, chairman of Scarborough Town Centre Team, said:
“The new wayfinding signs are an innovative addition to Scarborough and will provide important information for visitors.
“However, what is more innovative and exciting is the use of technology to complement the signs enabling us to better promote all the fantastic things Scarborough has to offer.”
Simon Bean, English Heritage’s head of historic properties Yorkshire, said:
“There is so much to see in Scarborough, from the bustling sea front to the tranquillity of Scarborough Castle’s headland.
“This new wayfinding scheme will help visitors explore the full range of sites in the town.
“We are expecting English Heritage sites at the coast to be busy this summer so I would like to thank Scarborough Borough Council for making this happen so early in the season.”