MEMBERS of the public have been asked for their views to transform the Branksome Chine area as part of Poole council’s ‘seaside regeneration’ scheme.

At a drop-in event on the seafront on Wednesday, plans were on display showing ideas to create a more welcoming plaza with improved surfacing and artistic features.

At the moment, the area is dominated by the car park and an “extensive tarmac area”, the council says.

However, Branksome Chine is a popular arrival choice for many people visiting Poole’s beaches.

The works, which are expected to cost £180,000, would see new palm tree planters with integrated wooden seats and existing benches relocated further down the promenade.

Cobbles would be placed either side of the chine to encourage cyclists to slow down.

Bicycle racks would be installed between the planters.

Timber bollards would replace the gate, and old signage would be removed and replaced with a new ‘wayfinding totem’.

A new shower would also be installed, and the kerb and pavement outside the shop and kiosk would be upgraded.

In May, a turning circle space was created to provide a stop for the land train at Branksome Chine.

A trial service has been running since then. The proposals include a permanent train stop and land train turning circle.

The project forms part of Poole council’s £6.6m seafront regeneration programme.

This includes £1.2m support from the Coastal Communities Fund through the Dorset Coastal Connections portfolio.

Four public areas along Poole’s seafront are being renovated, including Shore Road and Canford Cliffs.

New beach huts and a seafront garden were recently completed at Flaghead Chine.

Councillor John Challinor, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “This engagement is an opportunity for anyone to show an interest in the plans we have for Branksome Chine promenade. We want comments and suggestions from the public, and these could help shape the improvements here.”

Nikki Parker-Goadsby, Dorset Coastal Connections project officer, added: “We are really keen to hear residents’ and visitors’ views on the proposed designs for the public space at Branksome Chine promenade.”

To view the plans visit seafront.pooleprojects.net/branksome-chine, or leave comments at dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk/Poole-Seafront-development by September 12.