In their response to the Daily Echo over the letter from Savills to Bill Cotton, Bournemouth Council say their working relationship with the property experts "remains excellent".

Bill Cotton, executive director for environment & economy said: “It is our understanding that Savills are satisfied with the advice they have given and how it has been presented and referenced by the Council in our statements, reports and documents.

"Equally, I am satisfied that the Council has not misrepresented the advice given in any way.

“As far as I am aware, Savills continue to stand by their advice, that being that the financial projections have foundation, and simply sought to clarify their role in this matter, of which we have remained clear throughout.

“Our working relationship with Savills remains excellent and I look forward to the Council continuing to work with them on this development, and other matters, in the future.”

Read the letter in full here