The functions and planning of visitor centres in regional tourism

Abstract

Visitor centres are distinctive purpose/built tourist facilities and their multiple funcions are important in fostering sustainable regional tourism. The key attributes which define a visitor centre are specified. The analysis the proceeds by articulating a "Four Plus" model of visitor centre functioning, and suggests ways to enhance visitor centre functioning among and within centres. The possibilitites for research addressing community participation and acceptance, as well as longitudinal studies on visitor centre effectiveness including responses to refurbishment are identified.