A CIVIC leader has unveiled a new tourist information centre which could boost Ripon's economy.

The Smeaton Information Centre, on the marina, was opened on Saturday by the city's mayor, Councillor Bernard Bateman.

The launch of the £340,000 facility marks the end of a British Waterways scheme to improve facilities along Ripon Canal for visitors, walkers, boaters and fishermen. Named after John Smeaton, who designed the canal in 1766, the centre will provide local information for tourists, as well as supplying new services for boaters.

Waterways manager Nigel Sheppard said: "We are confident this project will be of great interest to visitors to the Ripon area and the local community. We want people to use these new facilities and really enjoy our waterways."