A BLUEPRINT to make Bournemouth seafront “world-class” includes plans for overnight stay beach huts and a major overhaul of the Pier Approach area.

A new seafront strategy detailing £90million of improvements has been drawn up to boost the number of visitors to the beach and increase the length of time and money they spend there.

The eventual aim is to zone the seafront into four distinct areas, with their own unique identity. The four suggested zones are 'The Chines,' 'Central Beach', 'Coastal Activity Park' and 'Coastal Nature Park.'

The first phase of the scheme includes:

  • Building 20 new overnight stay beach huts that will be available for hire all year round at Southbourne.
  • Building more super huts at Alum Chine.
  • Removing the majority of the fairground attractions at Pier Approach to open up the views.
  • Building a new seafront information point in the heart of Pier Approach and a waterplay feature and terraces on the eastern side.
  • Interactive lighting to compliment the new Gardens of Light scheme and make the area more attractive in the evening.

The plans have been hailed “truly outstanding” by Andrew Francis, the chairman of Bournemouth Tourism Management Board. He said: “Our current seafront is wonderful and well-managed, however what is planned is truly world class.

“Of real significance in the strategy is the zoning of sections of the seafront, in order to ensure that each has its own identity and appeal for different users, both locals and tourists alike, whilst at the same time still retaining its Bournemouth identity.”

Improving Pier Approach was the number one priority identified by stakeholders in a recent consultation exercise. This was followed by improving seafront cafes and shops and upgrading toilet facilities.

The strategy will go before cabinet members next Wednesday.