“Since opening for business in its new cultural precinct location, the Gunnedah Visitor Information Centre has recorded very encouraging visitation rates, with most days recording higher than normal visitation,” Council’s manager of customer service and community relations Lisa Davis said.

“In 2013, 9016 visitors attended the Visitor Information Centre in Anzac Park, equating to on average, 24 visitors per day.

“On Saturday alone, the Visitor Information Centre recorded 41 walk-in visitors, with Gunnedah’s Visitor Information Centre team – Chris Frend and Leanne Jeffree – recording, as of Wednesday, a total of 152 walk-in visitors since opening day.

“Monday recorded 39 walk-in visitors. This is on average 30 visitors to the VIC per day with visitors taking the opportunity to explore the Creative Arts Gallery and to purchase goods from Gunnedah’s business community which is a welcomed result for the local economy.”

Mrs Davis said visitors and locals were providing “very positive feedback” about the fresh look and improved functionality of the newly launched VIC and the “vibrancy” of the cultural precinct.

“From all reports it would appear we are on track to achieving the very best outcome for the VIC service, the shire’s tourism industry and Gunnedah’s broader economy,” she said.

The relocation of the centre has caused controversy in the Gunnedah community. A petition against the move, including thousands of signatures, failed to sway council’s decision.

Despite an earlier protest, only about 12 people made a stand against the move at the official opening of the centre on Friday.