HAVING moved to Bournemouth only last year, I love living here and completely disagree with Richard Knowles’ letter (Echo Wed Apr 22), which suggests the town has taken a big nosedive.

There was an article in The Independent on Monday, describing Bournemouth as “a cosmopolitan, multi-national community with a booming economy, which is avoiding the decline afflicting seaside towns all around Britain”.

I agree with that and see massive investment in the town, both by the council and by private developers.

If cranes looming over building sites are a mark of confidence and prosperity, then Bournemouth is rich in both.

The two new Hilton hotels in Exeter Road, right opposite the cinema development on the old NCP car park, the renovations at the Pier Approach, the many new student blocks in the Lansdowne, and the Air and Wheels Festivals all excite me.

And my wife and I really enjoy the amazing opportunities we have for outdoor activities, not only at the Coastal Activity Park on the beach, but also at the wonderful Velodrome and the many tennis courts and leisure centres around the town.

No, Mr Knowles. It is a shame that you had such a disappointing time in Bournemouth, but you must have been unlucky. I do hope you’ll come back again soon and get back your old enthusiasm for my adopted home.

DAVID SMITH

Sea Road, Boscombe