Following
the announcement by Heritage Minister Andrew McIntosh that the entrance
to Boscombe pier is to be listed, thus scuppering the proposed development
plans for the area, Tobias Ellwood, Prospective MP for Bournemouth
East, believes we should take action to improve the seafront in time
for the summer season rather than wait for another grand scheme which
could take years.
Two
simple initiatives could could be completed in a matter of months
which would make the seafront more attractive.
Firstly
the removal of the derelict building at the end of the pier and
installation of a basic viewing platform, making a walk up the pier
far more interesting, especially for children.
Secondly,
simple modification to the stairway structure to allow pleasure
cruises to include Boscombe on their itinerary. Dorset Belle Cruises
have indicated their enthusiasm for such a move. This would link
Boscombe with the main pier, Poole and even the Isle of Wight.
Commenting
on these proposals Tobias said:
Boscombe should not be forced to wait while the Council scratch
their heads and come up with another grand scheme. The seafront
has little in the last 50 years, and with every year's delay more
hotels shut and more businesses move away.
Boscombe
needs to build a strong identity and these two cost-effective proposals
will not conflict with any major regeneration that eventually may
come to light, but they will have an immediate effect on both residents
and visitors of Boscombe who are calling out for action.
With regards to the development of Honeycombe Chine itself, this
delay is the ideal chance for the Council to revisit the plans for
building on the car park. Plans which presently include losing 17
ft of the promenade to a 22ft support wall - plans which are completely
out of tune with the wishes of local residents.
For
more information please contact:
Tobias Ellwood
Conservative Parliamentary Candidate
Bournemouth East
Haviland Road West
Bournemouth
BH1 4JW
Email: Tobias@bournemoutheastconservatives.com
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