PROPOSALS for the biggest planning scheme in Bournemouth’s history have gone before the public during a one-day consultation at the new Hilton.

The former Winter Gardens site could be transformed if councillors give £150m plans the green light.

Developers propose to build between 350 and 400 properties, including one-, two- and three-bed apartments and penthouses across four multi-storey buildings of varying heights.

A new food store, outdoor cafes, a children’s play area and up to five units for high-quality restaurants along Exeter Road are also proposed for the 4.6 acre site, which sits between the BIC and the new Hilton.

A widened space for pedestrians in Exeter Road will also form part of the ‘grand garden walk’, an initiative to provide a continuous promenade for walkers and cyclists in the town centre.

Duncan Johnston, director of the Bournemouth Development Company (BDC), said those who viewed the plans had generally had a positive reaction.

“The feedback has been good,” he said.

“We want to lift the quality of the urban environment and deliver a new story for Bournemouth.”

The current 220-space surface car park at the Winter Gardens site dates from 2006, when the old concert hall was demolished after being closed four years earlier.

To replace the spaces, below-ground parking will be created.

There will also be a private parking space for each of the new residential units.

Mr Johnston said: “There is potential here to create a vibrant, high-quality built and landscaped environment for residents, the local community and visitors to enjoy.”

Jane Green, who has lived in the town centre for 36 years, said: “I was worried about further development - we need something that adds to the town centre. I’d certainly rather had flats than nightclubs.”

Other projects completed by the BDC include the Citrus Building and student accommodation at Madeira Road for Arts University Bournemouth.