A tourist information centre in Worthing could be spared from budget cutbacks.

Worthing Borough Council leader Sheila Player said closing the tourist information centre in Marine Parade, Worthing, was unlikely.

We revealed last week closing the seafront centre was one of the money-saving options being considered to balance the council's books for the 2003/04 budget.

Some felt the move would be a mistake, however, leaving tourists unable to find information about hotels, entertainments and local attractions.

Although another centre runs in Chapel Road, near Worthing Town Hall, its location is not as prominent as the seafront site.

Councillor Player said the final decision to keep the seafront centre open had not been taken but she added: "I do not think this will be agreed or even recommended for closure."

Sue Murray, of Worthing Hospitality Association, said: "The centre is a frontline service to the town, for residents as well as visitors. In the summer seasons, it is used far more than the Chapel Road one and it makes economic sense to keep it open."

The final decision on the seafront centre will be taken on Monday.