A new visitors' centre that will provide information for services and events in Huntingdon has opened its doors.
The Discover Huntingdon Visitor Centre is situated on the High Street and has been launched by the BID Huntingdon First group.
Visitors to the town will be able to find out what shops and services are on offer, including such things as getting a haircut or ordering some takeaway food. There are also maps and guides and gifts.
The visitor centre officially opened on November 20, with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority mayor Dr Nik Johnson, and town centre manager Paul Sweeney and mayor of Huntingdon, Cllr Phil Pearce on ribbon- cutting duties.
Dr Johnson said: “Attracting businesses, sharpening the town's profile and building the visitor economy are crucial parts of boosting recovery in our market towns.
"This new visitor centre is the welcome result of a locally led creative partnership and I’m in no doubt it will have a positive impact on Huntingdon and the revitalisation of its High Street.”
The centre is based in the Commemoration Hall at 39 High Street, and the front office has been transformed into a welcoming, accessible space.
The work was possible due to £50,000 grant from the Combined Authority and support from the Market Town’s Regeneration Team at Huntingdonshire District Council.
Mr Sweeney said: “My belief is that as a BID our role is to support local shops and businesses, drive footfall and extend dwell time.
"What I felt was missing, not just from Huntingdon but from most towns around the UK, was a heart right at the centre of our high streets in which to do that.”
"Our high streets are changing, they are not the same as they were 20 years ago and likely won’t be the same in another 20.
"The visitors centre offers us the chance to promote our shops and services right at the heart of our town. This isn’t a Tourist Information Centre - the focus here is solely on our 'here and now' businesses. Heritage and Tourism are of course a part of our town and will be present.
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