Exciting plans for the future of Dover Visitor Information Centre, and proposals to locate the VIC in a new, larger entrance area in Dover Museum, are moving forward for the town following partnership working between Dover Town and Dover District Council.
DTC and DDC have agreed to work together to share the running costs of the new centre, and to jointly fund the relocation. This is part of ongoing partnership working for the town for the benefit of residents, visitors and local businesses.
Proposals are to relocate the VIC to the front of the Museum, to create a new combined VIC/Museum entrance. Initial plans are to extend the ground floor of the Museum to the front of the outer wall of the building, to create a joint shop and information area. The current disabled access will be relocated as part of the project.
Details of layout and costs are currently being drawn up, and it is hoped work could begin on site in October, subject to any necessary planning permission and listed building consent being granted.
Cllr Frederick Scales, DDC Cabinet Member for Economy and Special Projects said: "We are very pleased to be working with Dover Town Council on this important project, and to be moving forward together on this new centre to support tourism for Dover. This is a great example of partnership working for the future of the town."
Cllr Susan Jones, the Right Worshipful the Town Mayor of Dover said: "Behind the scenes, a lot of discussions have occurred between Dover Town Council and Dover District Council, on this important subject. Cllr Mrs Lyn Young has chaired our working group, which has reached this successful and forward-thinking solution, for the benefit of our residents and visitors. It represents an important step forward."
Amanda Cottrell, from Visit Kent, said: "We applaud this excellent example of best practice and innovative thinking, in this time of austerity for the county of Kent."