The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted that people need more information and advice about their local area including services and support available.
During this period, local town and parish councils have worked closely with Dorset Council to strengthen the work that they do together in local communities, and we would like to build on these efforts when delivering local and visitor information in the future.
There are a number of venues where visitor information can be accessed. These include five TICs provided by town councils or a local voluntary group, with Dorset Council currently managing four other TICs across the county .
The future arrangements for visitor information in Lyme Regis is already being discussed with the local town council following a previous consultation. This survey focuses on the remaining three Dorset Council TICs in Dorchester, Sherborne and Wareham.
TICs provide the following key services:
- free information including maps, local attractions and events, general information about the local area, bus/transport provision and information about accessibility
- ticket sales for some transport providers and for local events
- accommodation information and booking for the local area.
Providing information is an important part of the work of the TICs and the Council is aware that the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic period may result in a greater need for more information and advice.
The TICs generate income to help with operating costs, with approximately £200,000 each year (for the 3 TICs) paid by Dorset Council to support the service, which is increasing each year. The majority of this funding is spent on staffing.
Complete the consultation here: https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=159854471624
The consultation is closes 29 November. Paper copies are available at all Dorset Council TICs and libraries if you are unable to complete the survey online.