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Ensuring value for money and respecting Guildford's heritage

It is clear that the current location of Guildford Borough’s Tourist Information Centre, paying a commercial rent in Tunsgate, offers neither value for money for local taxpayers nor a prominent position to bring in tourists.

However, the current proposals for Guildford House, the Constitutional Hall at 170 High Street and the Tourist Information Centre need greater research and transparency.

The recent scrutiny review has revealed that no consideration has been made of co-locating the Tourist Centre in Constitutional Hall with another retail or business use. This could avoid taxpayers paying the capital cost of refurbishing the Hall, save the rent paid at Tunsgate, bring in a regular rental income and avoid the need for musical chairs at Guildford House. For example, what better use – a century on – for the former picture palace of Constitutional Hall than as an independent cinema?

Neither has there been a proper assessment of the case for transferring the Guildford House building to a community trust, ensuring the Grade 1 listed building remains in safekeeping for local community use for perpetuity. The Council’s assets should be used effectively and efficiently, but residents want to be reassured that there will be continued public access to Guildford House, and our High Street’s heritage is protected and respected for current and future generations.

Cllr Sheridan Westlake

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