A LIST of priority schemes to regenerate Christchurch has been set out by the borough’s six independents councillors.

The leader of the Christchurch Independents on BCP Council, Paul Hilliard has written to BCP Council leader Drew Mellor to formalise what the group sees as the key projects.

These include the revitalisation of Christchurch town centre as well as the ‘huge development opportunity’ at the Civic Offices site in Bridge Street.

The list also includes the revitalising of the Lymington Road high street in Highcliffe, although the new parish council for Highcliffe and Walkford has already drawn up its own plans for this and is seeking BCP backing for them.

Cllr Hilliard, said: “We have laid out our thoughts and priorities, and those of our residents, to the administration and we are looking for a clear signal of intent from Cllr Mellor and his colleagues they will treat Christchurch as an equal partner alongside Bournemouth and Poole.

“We want to see a dynamic, imaginative, proactive and coherent approach to the borough’s future success in the interests of all our residents and communities.”

"There are some really great opportunities, including the riverside civic offices site which has enormous potential for something special as a catalyst for regeneration.”

BCP Council leader Drew Mellor has said that he is “absolutely committed to protecting and enhancing” the town though his 36 Christchurch representatives in the council.

He added: “Only this week we have announced significant new investment in Christchurch street cleansing to counteract years of underfunding and in bringing forward a cabinet lead member for Christchurch regeneration.

“I’m evidencing that Christchurch will not be overlooked any longer and in this Conservative administration we have 36 Christchurch champions.”