POOLE’S High Street is “dead on its knees” - and it could get worse if proposed ‘super-council’ plans get the green light, councillors have warned.

The comments were made during a meeting of the council’s business improvement overview and scrutiny committee meeting, held just three days before the town’s branch of McDonald’s closed after 34 years.

Councillor Vikki Slade said residents fear Poole could become little more than “Greater Bournemouth” under the scheme, which could unite Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch councils.

“Our High Street is dead on its knees - we can’t compete against Bournemouth,” she said.

She urged council bosses to ‘write down’ their priorities to “protect” Poole’s future.

“I think Poole’s identity is a lot stronger than Bournemouth’s,” said Cllr Sean Gabriel, who chaired the meeting.

“If you go on holiday, Poole is the better option, easily.”

But Cllr David Brown said: “I fear for the long-term prospects for Poole High Street.”

He added that the offerings in the town centre could end up resembling those in Winton or Boscombe.

Cllr Andy Hadley said problems in Poole may stem from the council itself.

“All we have done since I became a councillor is cut and reduce things and not have ambition for where we’re going,” he said.

He asked councillors to consider how they could make the merger “work for Poole”, adding: “Make sure it’s not a little sidetrack from Bournemouth.”

Cllr Elaine Atkinson said the losses of Burger King and McDonald’s have been a blow to the town.

“Our High Street is dying,” she said. “[The closures] will impact quite hard.”

However, she said the town is “one of the best areas in the country in terms of advanced engineering”.

Cllr May Haines accused councillors of “scaremongering”.

“We’ve now got a town centre business improvement district (BID) team,” she said.

“They will see to it that the High Street will improve, and then shine.”

Speaking on condition of anonymity, one trader said the area has “flatlined”.

“It’s been so tough and the councillors just don’t seem to be on our side,” he said.

“This is the centre of the town, but they’re closing toilets, agreeing to new parking charges - then they wonder why it’s all going so badly.”

However, staff at Poole Methodist Church’s Wesley’s Cafe say business is booming.

Deacon Sarah Wickett said: “We’re open to the public every day except Sundays, and we’re always busy.”

The cafe, which has been open for around two years, has space for toddler groups and art classes.

“People feel like they’re getting value for their money here,” said Sarah.