THE start of the new year has brought turbulent times for tourism in Upton.

Peter Webb this week resigned as chairman of the town’s tourism and trade association after more than five years in the role.

And more upheaval is set to follow, with the future of the town’s tourist information centre (TIC) up for debate by Malvern Hills District Council next month.

Mr Webb said he felt he did not have the backing of certain traders and had taken his decision for the sake of the prosperity and unity of the town.

Don Bridges was appointed interim chairman at an extraordinary general meeting on Monday evening.

One of the first challenges Mr Bridges will face is the likely upheaval of the TIC.

Members of MHDC’s executive committee due to consider a review into the operation on Tuesday, February 14.

The council wants to save money and feels the TIC’s current position on the corner of High Street is not cost effective.

Mike Morgan, who represents Upton and is co-chairman of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee, said three options are under consideration.

They are moving the TIC into Upton Heritage Centre, looking for another, more suitable-sized location in the town and keeping the TIC where it is but renting out the upstairs floors.

A fourth option of moving the TIC into Upton library has already been ruled out.

“There will almost undoubtedly be changes and I think the option of keeping the TIC where it is is looking very unlikely,” said Councillor Morgan.

“From my point of view it makes sense to move into the heritage centre.

“It would cut costs but also allow that venue to stay open for longer. It cannot do so at present because it relies solely on the efforts of volunteers.”

He does not expect any changes to take effect until after the busy summer tourist season.