The future of the Visitor Information Centre in Burford hangs in the balance following a review by WODC, who run the VIC, of their policy on tourism. This has recommended that the VIC should be closed, mainly on the ground that visitors now rely on online sources for information about the area rather than by going to a local information centre.
The matter will be discussed by WODC's cabinet on 24 March. The agenda for that meeting can be found here: https://meetings.westoxon.gov.uk/documents/g1814/Public%20reports%20pack%2024th-Mar-2021%2014.00%20Cabinet.pdf?T=10
The section about the VIC starts on page 171.
If the VIC does indeed close (or stay closed, since it has not reopened since the start of the pandemic a year ago) it will be a blow to the local tourist trade. When it was open it had a steady stream of visitors either seeking information about things to do in the area or wanting to buy gifts. It also means the staff will be made redundant. The centre was additionally a resource to residents wishing to know about local events and contributed useful articles on this subject to The Bridge.
If you are concerned about this, you can speak at the meeting but you would need to register beforehand on the council website. You could also inform Burford Town Council of your views: town.clerk@burford-tc.gov.uk
or you can contact Burford's district council member, Derek, Cotterill:
UPDATE: WODC'S CABINET HAS NOW APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATION THAT THE VIC SHOULD BE CLOSED
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