THE removal of Christchurch's two redundant gasholders has reignited speculation over whether a major redevelopment will be carried out on the prime town centre site.

Two years ago initial discussions took place over creating a riverside marina with housing, shops and a new park on the land off Bridge Street.

Plans were drawn up and shown to councillors at a private briefing in May 2016, however no planning application was ever formally submitted.

The gasholders were removed recently as part of a national cut back by SGN, after the firm were told they did not require permission from Christchurch Borough Council.

Now talk has resurfaced on whether the marina proposals are back on the table.

The extensive plan from 2016 incorporated the site of the Civic Offices, the former Mostyns factory, the gas works and Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre and golf course.

Given the scheduled merger of Christchurch Borough Council with authorities in Bournemouth and Poole, the future use of the Civic Offices is in doubt.

No public discussions have taken place on whether the current home of Christchurch Borough Council's operations will be needed by the new unitary authority.

At the time of the draft plans coming to the surface, Christchurch Borough Council chief executive, David McIntosh, said: “We do receive approaches about a variety of issues and we take a view about each one on their own merits.

“Any proposal which has obvious benefits to the council has to be looked into, particularly in light of the funding cuts that we face.”

Development on the vacant gas works site could draw the attention of senior officials at Bournemouth Borough Council ahead of the merger.

Officers and members of Bournemouth Borough Council have committed to the authority's approach of capital investment.

Recent high-profile projects have included the acquisition of Mallard Road retail park for £49million and plans to build a £70m hotel next to the BIC.

When questioned about the retail park purchase in February, Cllr Philip Broadhead, cabinet member for economic growth, said: “Many local authorities have already built up large investment property portfolios to generate additional income to help underpin their financial position.

"In Bournemouth, as part of the council’s asset investment strategy we are creating a portfolio of investments that support the local economy as well as generate surplus income."