Ullapool VisitScotland branch closure leaves locals ‘so disappointed’ to lose ‘wonderful team’
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THE shock closure of VisitScotland iCentres is a backward step for parts of Ross-shire like Ullapool.
That’s the view of many who value the role played by the hubs which are now slated for closure as part of a vision shared by the national visitor agency this week.
The iCentres provide visitors information and local recommendations which are often valued by those spending a short time in any given area.
The agency this week revealed that VisitScotland iCentres will be closing over the next two years. As well as offering advice, the iCentres also showcase gifts from local artists, small businesses and craftspeople.
The national tourism organisation says the demand for the information centres has reduced while the demand for online information and booking has continued to grow.
The closures are part of a strategy designed to grow the visitor economy by influencing visitors in the planning stage of their trip, before they leave home.
VisitScotland said that the demand for information centres has reduced while the requirement for online information and booking has continued to grow.
They said the decision follows significant changes to the way people plan their holidays, with most using online resources and travel specialists to research and book all aspects of their trips.
However, many locals argue that the shock decision has instead been taken simply for “cost-cutting” purposes.
A previous Tourist Information Centre worker shared their thoughts on the news on a Ross-shire Journal Facebook post. They said: “VisitScotland’s ‘change in information channels’ may be right, however loads of visitors arriving at a place just winging it or may want to know information that websites don’t have. Others want to speak to real people about a place - some people also don’t have access to the internet.
“Using social media influencers is great until every visitor that follows them, ends up in the same few places recommended because an influencer was paid to go there.
“This is cost cutting being dressed up to make it look as if it’s a change.”
A Wester Ross local said: “I am so disappointed for the staff, visitors and especially the large amount of people that are unable to go online to book bus tickets and the wonderful team at The Ullapool branch have supported them completing these bookings.”
All VisitScotland information centres – known as iCentres - will operate as usual until the end of September as part of phased two-year closure programme.
VisitScotland is currently engaging with stakeholders to discuss local arrangements.
Lord Thurso, VisitScotland chairman, said: “The tourism landscape has changed significantly in recent years.
“The demand for iCentres has reduced while the demand for online information and booking has continued to grow.
“In order to continue building demand and growing the value of tourism and events, it is vitally important that we target channels we know visitors use to influence them to visit Scotland.
“Our research shows that as an organisation, we have a greater and more impactful role to play in providing information before visitors travel. Prioritising a digital-first model of information provision allows us to reach potential visitors at those early planning stages when we can shape their future travel decisions.
“Together with businesses and our partners, we want to build on success and ensure that across all areas of our work – marketing, destination development, business advice, insights and events - we prioritise the activities that will deliver for our industry and for Scotland.
“By evolving our work in this way, we will be able to invest in the activities that will accelerate sustainable growth in the visitor economy, helping create jobs, sustain communities and attract investment for the future.”
