Rescue plan for tourist centres

A rescue package to save Lincoln's tourist information centres is in the pipeline.

Shops, restaurants, banks and Lincoln Cathedral could be the new face of the city's tourism access centres, under a plan co-ordinated by Lincolnshire County Council.

Several private sector firms have approached authorities saying they are willing to allow part of their premises to be used.

Lincoln Cathedral has also confirmed that it is willing to get involved.

Councillors were meeting today for talks on the idea.

It would mean that computers linked to tourism websites and information programmes would be placed in businesses and public buildings, such as libraries.

Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill said that up to eight "access points" would be created.

Councillor Hill said: "We are not just trying to replace the centres but make the service much better.

"We have so many partners and interested parties around the table that I am confident that we can come up with a 21st century solution."

One business leader said the loss of the TICs would still push Lincoln into the tourism "second division".

The City of Lincoln has announced it will close its two tourism information centres in Cornhill and Castle Square in September.