York's visitors and residents could soon benefit from a brand new visitor information centre if councillors approve plans next month.

York currently has three visitor information centres - the main service in the De Grey Rooms, one at the station and a kiosk operation that operates in Coppergate during the summer. However, with around 240,000 people visiting the De Grey Rooms each year, the venue is too small and not as accessible as it could be. It is believed that the number of visitors would rise significantly if the service was in a better location.

A feasibility study to find alternative city centre sites was commissioned by the York Tourism Partnership, which has responsibility for the VICs. The report shows that it is possible to substantially improve the service so it will:
- be accessible to all
- be a showcase for York and Yorkshire
- be financially sustainable
- significantly increase the numbers of customers, including residents, using the service
- help increase visitors' length of stay and increase the value of tourism to the city and region's economy

Two possible sites have been identified by council officers and tourism industry partners. These are the former city centre manager's office and public toilets in Parliament Street and the former council offices on the corner of Blake Street.

The option recommended in the report is the Blake Street location, which is within sight of York Minster. The existing building could be adapted to include the range of facilities needed for 21st century VIC services, including accommodation bookings, event and attraction ticket sales, excursion coach bookings and transport tickets, as well as prominent retail and display space to showcase regional produce.

Options for the first floor of the building are subject to further investigation, but could include offices for the newly-established York Tourism Partnership or a public facility. It is intended that the building could be brought into use for the service before the end of 2008.

The Parliament Street option would require a completely new building constructed to a high specification due to the sensitivity of the location. Activities would include a ground floor VIC; a number of commercial uses such as a delicatessen to showcase Yorkshire produce; a rooftop restaurant and a street café. However, the report suggests that the development would be very high-risk in financial terms due to the construction costs. Planning and design considerations  mean that it would not be ready for occupation for at least three years, possibly longer.

At a meeting on 10 September, the council's City Strategy Executive Member and Advisory Panel (EMAP) will be asked to endorse the Blake Street recommendation because of the issues of timing and the higher costs of the Parliament Street option.

If agreed, more detailed proposals for the Blake Street site would be drawn up by partners.

Roger Ranson, assistant director for economic development and partnerships, said: “Tourism is such a valuable industry for York’s economy that anything to improve the service to visitors is welcome.  Improved visitor information services will also benefit residents who can find out more about their city and will have so much to recommend to their friends and relatives when they visit York."