Proposals for a tourist information centre in the Old Gentlemen's Shelter in Penryn have been put on hold following a meeting of the town council.

Last month the council agreed in principle to a centre and community hub run by social enterprise Visit Penryn and shared with the town Share Shop, which would provide tourist information, organise walking tours and itineraries, and work with traders and accommodation providers, among other services.

However the decision was made subject to agreement over costs, and the council seemed surprised to see first year revenue costs of £12,920 for the first year added on top of set up costs of £2,130, especially as they were told it is likely that the council will be required to make a contribution in subsequent years.

Councillor Beverly Hulme said it was a lot of money and she would like to see a more detailed business plan, as she was "not sure what their proposals are."

She added that proposals such as a Falmouth ambassadors group, would need risk assessments and insurance, as well as translators, as there could possibly be many non-English speaking or older visitors.

The discussion also came on the same day as a meeting with Cornwall Council officers to consider the takeover of Penryn's library building, and councillors felt that it might be possible to offer Visit Penryn space at the same site, thereby reducing costs.

Councillor John Langan said: "That may be 10 grand they don't need to spend. And it's round the corner from there."

The mayor, Mark Snowdon, said: "We agreed to provide the Old Gentlemen's Shelter, we said have the premises for them to use.

"I'm wondering how these contract fees are made up. Is that someone's wages?"

Councillor Mary May proposed that the proposal be deferred until Visit Penryn had given the council more details.

Pip Carlton Barnes, who runs visit Penryn, said the contract fees listed in the proposal are for one paid member of staff for the year to manage and run the centre.

She said: "If the council think the library would provide a better, cheaper and more practical solution and service for the town and visitors then they obviously have a reason to think this.

"The Old Gentlemen's Shelter is in a great location and creates a nice link between Commercial Road and the town. However, the location is one factor in the ultimate goal of supporting local traders and community groups by boosting the towns profile and attracting more visitors to the town."