CHRISTCHURCH councillors agreed the borough’s Information Centre would be handed over to Regent Centre volunteers on Wednesday evening.

Matti Raudsepp, head of leisure and open spaces told councillors on the resources committee there was a greater emphasis on digital communications now and that the council was responding to ways people access information.

Cllr Claire Bath, portfolio holder for economy told members: “Visitors to our area are incredibly important to us.

“The service review has given an opportunity for us to look at the way we provide these services.

“There is a need for a presence in the town centre though.

“And it is an exciting opportunity for people to get involved with tourism and working with the Regent Centre it will give them a box office presence on the High Street.

“This is the best way forward for us.”

Cllr Ray Nottage, leader of the council said they were still supporting tourism but in an “innovative, modern direction.”

Talks are still ongoing with the Regent Centre Trust to finalise arrangements for the service to become volunteer led.

A tourism manager will support the new team for three years.