I FULLY endorse all of the issues raised in Ms Wardlaw's letter in The Courier on Saturday, August 11.
The council's decision this week to locate the permanent information centre in a former bank building in Sturt Street is an incredibly short-sighted response to an issue of such vital importance for the future tourism of Ballarat and its surrounds.
We have our heritage buildings, Sovereign Hill, the Australian Centre for Democracy, an outstanding art gallery.
Let us make it easy for visitors, not put obstacles in their path.
We must take the time and get it right.
Cheapest is not necessarily the best, especially if the outcome does not suit the purpose of the information centre. Outstanding information centres are remembered by travellers.
We have a city to be proud of, why should we settle for less than a first class information centre?
Residents of Ballarat, as anywhere, plan their holiday destinations to places other than their own city. And they obtain information for their holiday needs on the internet or agencies which provide such a service.
Our information centre provides for travellers from outside our city who are planning and hoping to stop here in Ballarat, if they can get a park to begin with.
A road traveller's perspective is essential. Their needs are simple and are as follows. Ample parking, particularly for caravans; a comfortable building with toilets and a cafe area for tea and coffee; and perusal of the information brochures and maps provided.
JOANNA SMITH
Lake Gardens