Discussions are underway that could put Bournemouth Town Centre firmly on the map for future generations.

 

Bournemouth Borough Council is asking, businesses, local organisations and Daily Echo readers how the town should be made more attractive for residents and visitors.

 

Questions are focusing on how transport links, the quality of shopping, tourist attractions and leisure facilities could be enhanced and improved and what could provide Bournemouth’s unique selling points.

 

The answers will help to shape a Town Centre Vision that will have a very real impact on the major development decisions in the months and years ahead.

 

Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr John Beesley, said: “This is an opportunity to create a tremendous legacy for the next generation. The town can be enhanced as a place to live and work as well as a place to visit.

 

“We’re not just floating ideas – this public input will have a very real impact. It will enable us to take a more proactive approach to planning the attractions, infrastructure and amenities Bournemouth needs. The improvements we plan will be delivered in a series of stages phased from now through the next 20 years.

 

“Discussion groups might suggest a landmark for the town, changes to the roads and pedestrian areas or they could put forward ideas for leisure attractions or larger developments.”

 

Initial focus groups are considering the circuit taking in the Pier Approach, Exeter Road, Gervis Place, Hinton Road and Bath Road.  It will also include Old Christchurch Road and the wider Town Centre area up to the railway station.

 

Cllr Beesley added: “As a Council we’d like to see more quality injected into the town. In the not too distant future plans could be considered for the two cinemas in Westover Road and the old ice rink site – whatever is decided will need to fit with the overall Town Centre Vision.”

 

Opinion from key stakeholders including the South West Regional Development Agency, Bournemouth 2026 and representatives from other businesses and organisations is currently being gathered and will help generate a number of options for deliberation early next year.

 

Over the coming weeks the Council will be asking for your comments on a number of topics being tackled by the vision.

Visit www.bournemouth.gov.uk/towncentrevision for the latest information.