The future provision of tourist information services across Richmondshire looks set to be decided next week.

Members of Richmondshire District Council’s Strategy Board will be asked to agree how the Tourist Information Points will be provided in Richmond and Leyburn. They would replace the current Tourist Information Centres in the towns.

The changes are part of the authority’s budget savings programme and will see the centres move away from being council run to being managed by the private sector and supported by volunteers – but still maintaining a presence in each market town.

Strategy Broad members will be told next week that a range of organisations across the district have been consulted by officers who have drawn up a 13 page report on the options. They will be asked to support the creation of a TIP in the existing location in Richmond - as part of a retail outlet; and within the Dales Haven B&B in Leyburn.

If agreed the changes will be implemented as soon as is practicable.