Southwark abandons its only tourist information centre

Hopes of a last minute offer of assistance from Southwark Council faded as the holiday period opened causing the closure of the PLaSH centre which promoted local history and heritage. It was run by the Southwark Heritage Association which is a not for profit charity.

Southwark Council's own purpose built Tourist Information Centre at the end of London Bridge was recently closed although It had been officially opened by Tourism Minister Janet Anderson as part of a millennium plan to welcome visitors drawn to Southwark for its art and heritage.

Southwark Council has yet to announce plans for an alternative welcome centre which tourist operators believe could spread visitor numbers between the attractions and increase the time visitors stay and spend in SE1.

Southwark Heritage Association, although now without a shop window, is continuing through its Young Pilgrims to offer an information service to visitors on the streets. The SHA remains willing to open a new centre if core funding is made available.

Southwark Council's tourism department has a newly recruited staff of one following recent resignations.