A NEW seaside garden has opened at Flaghead Chine in Poole as part of a £6.6m investment in the town’s seafront.

A trio of Portland stone shell sculptures are the focal point of the new feature, which has been designed to create a “memorable arrival at the seaside”, the council says. Sculptor Phil Bewes created small scale models of a trio of shells, which were then realised in the large-scale sculptures by Albion Stone Plc Portland. These were then hand finished by Mr Bewes.

Four new beach huts have also been installed at the chine and are aimed at family hire.

The works form part of the Seafront Development Programme, which is partly funded by a grant from the government’s Coastal Communities Fund and partner organisations, and co-ordinated by Dorset Coast Forum.

The project forms part of Dorset Coastal Connections – People and Places, a connected portfolio of 18 projects along the Dorset Coast, from Christchurch to Lyme Regis, which aims to support and boost the economies of the county’s coastal areas.

Four sites along Poole’s seafront, including Shore Road, Branksome Chine and Canford Cliffs are benefiting from investment.

Councillor John Challinor, cabinet member for culture and leisure said: “Flaghead Chine now provides a fitting welcome to the stunning seaside.

“The garden is encouraging families to stay a while, admire the views, and children are enjoying the incredible stone shells.

“We are lucky to enjoy such a wonderful seaside and to be able to continue our investment in Poole – a truly beautiful place.”

Nikki Parker-Goadsby, project officer for Dorset Coastal Connections, said: “We’re delighted with how the welcome at Flaghead Chine has been improved.

“The Coastal Communities funding has really added value to Borough of Poole’s investment in the seafront here, adding a beautiful public space for everyone to enjoy.

“It’s great to see people already making use of the extra seating and enjoying the play space.”