A NEGLECTED square in Poole town centre could finally get a much-needed makeover - helping to bring the forgotten area back to life.

Maypole Square, close to the historic Guildhall in Market Street, is occasionally used by children dancing around a maypole, but for little else.

Paved and containing benches and trees, with a separate area of grass, it is cut off by walls and roads and is largely overlooked, despite being close to the High Street.

For years Poole Quays Forum has been working alongside the council to bring forward a scheme which could turn the underused area into an attractive leisure space.

A planning application has now been submitted to the Borough of Poole for landscaping and lighting improvements for the square as well as the installation of seating and a new step artwork landmark.

Bill Constance, who submitted the application, said he stepped in to rescue the plans out of fear that they would be shelved for other priorities in the borough.

“The current site is quite unattractive and it isn’t used. If these plans go ahead I am certain that it will look as good as the pictures and create a fantastic space in the town centre for residents and visitors to enjoy. We have a real opportunity to make this area useful.”

According to the Design and Access statement the design “draws inspiration from the Guildhall, which has an extraordinary stone staircase at the front”.

The artwork steps will be cast in concrete with the top tread finished in Purbeck Stone.

A lighting pole, timber seating and an apple tree are also proposed for the square and will be integrated with the Maypole Steps artwork.

The scheme will also see a number of trees and hedgerow removed from the site.

A statement about the project said: “Maypole Square is currently in poor condition, and degrades the overall quality of the Guildhall. The overgrown trees obscure views of the Guildhall’s side façade, which is also of notable architectural quality.There are many complaints from the adjoining residents regarding street drinkers.

“The ambition is not only to revitalize the existing Maypole Square but also bring attention to the Guildhall building.”

“It aspires to achieve the civic quality of the Guildhall and create a space that could host wedding activities as well as everyday activities for the local community.”