A CRAZY Mouse rollercoaster currently located on Bournemouth's "world-class seafront" will not be returning, following a string of complaints from residents.

Bournemouth council has recently spent £4million refurbishing the Pier Approach area, and has repeatedly promised that this would include the removal of all the current temporary amusements, except for a Victorian-themed carousel.

But within weeks of the new and improved Pier Approach being unveiled, a brightly-coloured Crazy Mouse rollercoaster was set up on the former Imax site.

And Bournemouth council has also confirmed the bungee trampolines will remain at Pier Approach for the summer season.

The arrival of the rollercoaster sparked criticism from residents. Chris Colledge, chair of West Cliff residents' association, said: "With the newly refurbished Pier Approach, and the large amount of money spent on doing so, it is an insult to the town to have this structure blighting the landscape.

"Bournemouth deserves better and this monstrosity of Trap the Mouse should be removed immediately."

And on a Facebook page called 'Bournemouth Council are Chavs,' which campaigns for more cultural activities in Bournemouth, Anita Kaur-Simon commented: "It looks cheap and tacky. Well done Bournemouth Council on spending my council tax money on more rubbish again. It's worse than the Imax!"

Cllr John Beesley, leader of Bournemouth Council, said the rollercoaster would be in place until July 7 and would not be making a return visit.

"The Council is committed to the delivery of the seafront strategy with the recent completion of the first phase of works at Pier Approach transforming it into one of the best facilities in the UK," he said. "We have invested significantly in upgrading the whole of the Pier Approach area with really great results.

“However, we recognise that we have had a number of complaints from local residents about the quality of the tourist attraction in place until 7 July. "Unfortunately Council officers had already contracted the ride until that date, after which I have absolute assurance it will not be returning.”

Mark Smith, service director for tourism, said the rollercoaster was part of a "broad and changing" entertainment programme booked for the Waterfront space. He said this would be reviewed for next year.

“Following consultation with local traders we have tried to achieve a mix of attractions to suit all tastes," he said. "The Crazy Mouse is a short-term attraction for the site and that will be replaced by the Thai Festival in the second week of July with other events to follow.

“We appreciate that not all attractions or events will appeal to everyone. However, we have the challenge of striking a balance between ensuring this premium outdoor space contributes appropriately to the public purse financially.

"Essentially, the commercial attractions are contributing to the cost of the free entertainment during peak periods."