FINANCIAL support to help reinstate a visitor information service in Minehead has been paused by town councillors after concerns over how the money would be spent.

Councillors were asked last week to give £5,000 to the Minehead Coastal Development Trust (MCDT) which previously delivered tourism information services in the town.

Minehead was rocked earlier this year when the town’s tourist information centre in the Beach Hotel did not reopen and said it would remain closed indefinitely due to lack of funding.

Town clerk Ben Parker said footfall to the visitor centre had been falling as tourists instead sought information online ahead of or during their visits.

He said a sudden withdrawal of grant support then led to the closure of the visitor information centre and its associated online functions.

Mr Parker said historically the town council had supported and, at times, directly operated local tourism services.

The responsibility had been taken on in recent years by MCDT, which had demonstrated capability, local insight, and a long-term vision for tourism in Minehead.

Mr Parker said: “Minehead’s local economy depends significantly on tourism.

“There is a clear consensus that a visitor information service remains essential.

“However, any future provision must reflect current tourism trends, particularly the increasing reliance on digital engagement.

“An effective visitor information service is not only vital to attracting and supporting tourists but also plays a valuable role for local residents.

“The former service regularly assisted locals in accessing information about community events, activities, and services.

“Discussions to date have emphasised the importance of delivering a service that is both viable and aligned with evolving visitor expectations.”

Mr Parker said there was a recognition that existing infrastructure, experience, and community relationships should not be discarded, but built on to create a more modern, efficient, and sustainable model.

He said: “A complete reinvention is not necessary, rather, a refreshed and realistic approach should be developed using the strong foundation already in place.

“With the appropriate support, MCDT is well-positioned to re-establish a digital-first visitor information platform.

“Such a platform would offer year-round access to accurate and engaging content, event listings, local business promotion, and visitor guidance, fostering both economic activity and civic pride.”

Mr Parker said the £5,000 would not support a return to a manned visitor centre but it could help enhance Minehead’s digital tourism presence.

He said: “The funding would support the recruitment of additional staff to lead and expand online marketing and destination promotion.”

“This contribution would enable MCDT to expand their online offering, capitalising on existing expertise, infrastructure, and community networks to effectively promote Minehead as a vibrant, welcoming destination for both visitors and residents alike.”

However, councillors raised concern about a lack of clarity on project costs and how the proposed grant would be spent.

They acknowledged the importance of tourism to the local economy but questioned if the investment would be effective so late in the current tourism season.

Councillors agreed to defer a decision pending further detail on how the £5,000 grant would be used.