Dornoch Service Point Official Opening

17th May 2007

Dornoch Service Point was officially opened today enabling customers to access The Highland Council front line services, Sheriff Court services and Tourist Information services from the one building.

The new partnership has seen the Council's current Dornoch Service Point relocating from The Meadows to the centre of Dornoch to serve its customers from the Sheriff Court building.

Welcoming the opening of Dornoch Service Point retired Highland Councillor Duncan Allan said: "This has been a unique opportunity to realise partnership working in its true sense which has produced many benefits for all those involved and especially for the public who now have improved access to the Council, Sheriff Court and VisitScotland tourism services. This is a first for the Council providing services as part of a new initiative on behalf of VisitScotland."

The Highland Council and VisitScotland already operate partnerships in other locations but this is the first time that the Council will be providing the services on behalf of Visitscotland.

Information and advice will be offered to visitors and a freephone accommodation booking service will be available for customers and staff to use.

Scott Armstrong, Area Director VisitScotland Highlands said: "VisitScotland are delighted to enter into a partnership with Highland Council for the delivery of Tourist Information Centre (TIC) service in Dornoch. This arrangement follows on from the success of established Highland Council and VisitScotland partnerships in other areas across the Highlands. The partnership has ensured the continuation of provision of visitor information services in Dornoch where tourism is a very important part of the local economy."

Mike McBey, Sheriff Clerk said: "The Scottish Court Service, and in particular our staff at Dornoch, are delighted at this opportunity to work in collaboration with our colleagues in Highland Council. The improved access to both our services will mean an even better service for all our customers."

The conversion contract for the development of the new Service Point was won in open competitive contract by The Highland Council's Housing and Property Services. Highland Council's Service Point Manager Liz Cowie said: "I must commend the Council's local Building and Maintenance Team as the contract was completed on time and to an extremely high standard."

The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm to 5 pm.