A DEVELOPER wants to build new eco-flats in Boscombe – with a “Big Society” feeling and a beehive on the roof.

There would be an electric car-sharing club with three vehicles and a pond for rare newts and toads.

The developers say they want a sense of shared commitment from the residents.

“These are new areas to explore as part of what has been described by politicians as the Big Society,” said their design statement. The Beekeeping Association would set up the hives and a local member of the association would collect the honey.

Other features would include rainwater-harvesting, solar panels, and fruit bushes and shrubs that can be picked by residents.

The 21 studio flats would be split into two, three and four storey blocks, sitting over a shop and an office.

One of the directors of the development firm, Alex Newberry-Edwards, said: “We had a stand at the Boscombe Community Fair and we have had a huge response – totally positive.

“We will make a profit – it won’t be a huge profit – but the real return will come from rolling out more schemes like this.”

The flats are planned for 35-39 Palmerston Road. The site is currently home to a Christian book shop, offices used by Citygate Church, and an empty shop.

Boscombe West Cllr Chris Wakefield said: “It’s great to have such a forward-thinking housing plan. This encompasses what we are trying to achieve in Boscombe. “ The developer is The Oasis Concept Limited, a firm based in Talbot Woods.

Each unit would cost £79,990. The design statement said: “We do not intend for these units to be bought by property investors as this defeats the whole ethos of the scheme.”

There would be 25 cycle places, a communal gym and a utility room.