Westover Road revamp gets mixed reaction from public

PLANS to revamp Westover Road in Bournemouth went on show to residents and businesses.

The council says it wants to give the road a makeover to attract more people to it and improve its appearance.

Earlier this year it asked people what they wanted to see and now initial plans have been unveiled.

The council said ideas from those who responded included opening up the gardens, reducing traffic speeds, making the Bath Road entrance to Westover Road more welcoming and brightening up the gardens side of the road.

As a result, urban architects and designers BDP have drawn up plans which show widened pavements, better links with the Lower Gardens, removing clutter such as traffic islands, feature lighting, a gateway entrance to the Pavilion car park and changes to parking, buses and taxis.

A major change would be a new square at the Bath Road end with outdoor cafe seating, a canopy, lawn terraces, a kiosk and planting. The council and BDP say they aim to “restore the grandeur” of Westover Road and make it a destination.

Roger Ball, service director for technical services, said: “Making improvements in Westover Road is an important part of the Town Centre Vision and will help revive Westover Road as a key destination within the town centre.

“This consultation event is part of the first stage of the development process and gives local people and businesses the opportunity to meet the design team and give their views on the draft proposals.

“This will inform a final design that will then be taken forward for implementation on the ground.”

Town centre councillor David Smith added: “I think it’s very positive, very good. I hope the public support it and we can find some money to get on and do it.”

What you said:

Business owner Nihad Obagi said: “They’re reducing the car parking and I’ve said I’m dead against that.  I also feel they should do something  with the gardens.”

Kevin Conroy, from Winton, said: “There are enough squares and I can’t really see the point with the money involved. . It doesn’t really grab me to be honest.”

Ruby O’Brien, from Poole, said: “Visiting here there’s a quite run-down feel to it.
It could do with a bit of a revamp; it already has some nice elements.”

John Walker, from the East Cliff, said: “The main concern is the loss of the Silver Birch trees. Overall it looks like an improvement though.”

Jacquie Walker, from the East Cliff, said: “The ideas are good, especially the archways to the gardens. The arcade is covered for shoppers.”

Businessman Rory Davies said: “I think it’s good, I like the concept of trying to make it more pedestrian-friendly,  because I think it’s essential.”

To see the plans in full, click the image at the top of the story.