Hopes of a last-minute reprieve for the Herne Bay and Whitstable Visitor Information Centres were dashed when councillors voted unanimously to close both services.

The move, which executive members insist is a “reconfiguration” not a closure, will mean information will next year be dispensed at a network of leaflet stands, and via touch-screens with a limited face-to-face service at the Horsebridge Centre in Whitstable and at the council offices in Herne Bay.

Campaigners and speakers, who once again packed the council chamber public gallery, had hoped there might be a late pardon after the initial executive vote had been called in by members of the scrutiny committee.

In all, some 7,000 residents signed petitions and dozens spoke out against the plans. But the executive councillors said they had “no choice” but to close the two VICs due to the economic climate and the need to make financial savings.

They remained adamant that once in place the plans will actually signal an improvement to visitor information services in both coastal towns.

“I have got every wish to see both Whitstable and Herne Bay as successful resorts,” said Cllr Mike Patterson, executive portfolio holder for tourism.

“I do not see the reconfiguration of the visitor information services as having any negative effect whatsoever.”