6 March 2009

A project to invest £455,000 of Central Government ‘Sea Change’ funding in Boscombe is now underway.

Creative lighting linking Sea Road and Boscombe Precinct, purpose built accessible beach huts, as well as enhanced wheelchair access on the seafront are just a number of projects underway.

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), the Government agency investing in Boscombe, were impressed with the Council’s proposals to provide:

Iconic, purpose-designed disabled accessible beach huts and a seasonal beach trackway for wheelchair users
Sea Road arts trail, linking the Pier with the Precinct
Low-energy external mood lighting for a number of properties within Boscombe Precinct
Improvements to surfacing and seating on terrace, west side of Boscombe Pier Approach
Artist designed Orientation table within Edwardian Gardens overlooking Boscombe Pier Approach; and
Visitor interpretation/ information boards on cliff wildlife habitats
 

Next week (Monday 9 & 11 March) will see residents from Sea Road come together to explore the plans.  Over 600 residents have been invited to attend a presentation to find out how they can get involved in this exciting project.  Further presentations to local artists, community and business groups are also planned.

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, Cabinet Member for Economy & Tourism, said; “We are delighted to have been granted this funding.  This programme is essential for widening the benefits of the seafront regeneration into the heart of Boscombe. Our application for the funding demonstrated impressive proposals and the judges were particularly pleased on how we are recapturing creativity which will hopefully inspire other resorts to follow.

“Essentially this project will enhance the appearance of the area, creating a more user friendly and attractive ambience and encourage visitors who come to the beach to also venture up Sea Road and explore Boscombe.”

Andrew Emery, Boscombe Sea Change Project Manager said; “This is an exciting scheme which will deliver major improvements in access and enjoyment of our beaches for residents and visitors with disabilities.  The low energy creative lighting scheme planned for the Precinct will foster a more welcoming atmosphere in the evening, encouraging people to visit and businesses to open in the evenings.”