Arts centre building set to go in new plan

7:00pm Monday 10th September 2007

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By Melanie Vass »

THREE possible options for the Bournemouth Centre for Community Arts site have been unveiled - and all of them involve demolishing the existing building.

Residents are being asked to express a view on three options - selling the Haviland Road site in Boscombe to a housing association, selling it to a private developer or entering into a partnership arrangement with a housing association to build affordable housing, a day centre and offices.

The consultation dashes hopes that the 100-year-old building could be refurbished. According to the council, this possibility was considered but rejected it because the existing buildings are in such a poor state of repair.

Leader of the council Stephen MacLoughlin said: "We recognise that this is an important site for Boscombe.

"The options we are consulting on reflect the need for housing in the area and the potential opportunity to provide council services from the centre of the community.

"I really hope that residents and interested organisations will take this opportunity to let us know their views."

If the site is sold to a housing association, this will result in a scheme for 100 per cent affordable flats. If it is sold to a private developer, 30 per cent of the flats will be affordable and the rest sold on the open market.

The third option - a partnership arrangement - will see a day centre built on the site to replace existing facilities in the Boscombe and Southbourne area that provide services for people with physical disabilities and mental health problems.

It could also be used be people with learning difficulties and would be available for community use in the evenings and at weekends.

The offices would provide accommodation for council staff and there may also be space to let to voluntary groups.

Residents have two weeks to examine the options at Boscombe library and complete a feedback form.