A new tourist attraction is being mooted for Poole - it could be public art, a heritage trail, a water feature or celebration of maritime history.

Many suggestions came forward at an ideas forum - but what it won't be is a shiny, pointed, time-keeping pyramid towering over homes at Baiter.

"Nobody said we should reinvent the Solar Pyramid and bring that back," said Graham Richardson, tourism manager, Borough of Poole.

It was after the unpopular Solar Pyramid giant timepiece proposal was booted out that the council decided it was still open to a significant tourist attraction to help boost its economy.

The tourism and business community got together with councillors and officers to discuss what opportunities may exist for a tourist attraction in the town.

"We have a very strong product in the town already with our stunning harbour, beaches, parks and quayside, along with major quality attractions such as Compton Acres and Tower Park," said Bruce Grant-Braham, chairman of Poole Tourism Management Board.

"But recent losses of attractions on the quay has meant that our competitive position has lessened and with it visitor numbers."

He added: "We are keen to explore new attraction opportunities and if we can develop a clear picture of what investment the town would like to attract, it will give all of those involved the confidence to respond positively if an approach is made, or to be proactive if opportunities become known."

Celebrating Poole's flying boat history, a fountain or encouraging feature vessels to the quay were among the ideas, said Mr Richardson.

Cllr Xena Dion, chairman of the local economy overview and scrutiny group, said: "Those ideas that appear to meet Poole's requirements will be shared with Poole's residents through a public consultation exercise to seek their views and comments."