A DERELICT shop in Boscombe is well on its way to being converted into a community hub.

The former Argos shop in Christchurch Road will eventually be a base for a whole host of police and council services.

Due for completion in the summer, it will bring together the Boscombe Regeneration team, Dorset Police Safer Neighbourhood officers and a brand new youth services drop-in centre.

And it’s hoped that bringing the prominent building back to life will complement recent improvements at the Crescent and the shared space scheme.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: “This is a really exciting step forward for Boscombe.

“My priority is to ensure that Dorset Police has an operational base in the heart of Boscombe. Relocating the neighbourhood policing team to the former Argos building will have a positive impact.

“It centralises their service and will be great for public access. This will improve the visible policing presence in Boscombe and will help to regenerate the town centre.

“I have no doubt that the hub will be a welcome addition to the area.”

The Boscombe Regeneration Office which includes the regeneration team, Boscombe town centre manager and neighbourhood wardens, will relocate to the new premises from its existing base at Roumelia Lane. The public will continue to be able to drop in and seek advice and information.

The youth service will have its own public entrance and will offer a coffee bar along with its drop-in service.

Cllr Jane Kelly, cabinet member for partnerships and regeneration, said: “The former Argos building is in a prime location in Boscombe and it will provide a great central location for these key services who are all working towards improving Boscombe as a place to live, work and visit.

“It will have a really positive impact to see this space being used again.

“I’m especially looking forward to the much needed additional drop-in centre for the young people of Boscombe. Staff and young people from other youth centres in Bournemouth will be instrumental in helping to create and design the sorts of activities available from the new building.”