HOLDENHURST Road is set to close for 12 weeks as the first part of BCP Council’s “transformational vision” of the Lansdowne area.

The road will close on March 15 between Lansdowne Roundabout and Station Roundabout to all vehicles.

A diversion will be in place via St Swithun’s Road and Christchurch Road.

Revamp of Lansdowne, Bournemouth, 'pretty much ready to go'

The upcoming works represent the first stage of BCP Council’s long-term transformational vision for the area.

It will create new art installations, seating and an outdoor event space in the heart of Lansdowne’s main business district.

A new protected cycle route, improvements for local buses and safer pedestrian crossing points will also be introduced in Holdenhurst.

To support local businesses, BCP Council is working closely with key stakeholders to ensure access for both customers and deliveries is maintained throughout the upcoming works.

Signage will also be in place encouraging people to use local businesses in the area.

Councillor Philip Broadhead, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration, at BCP Council said: “I am delighted to announce that our Lansdowne transformation plans will soon be getting underway.

“This will see major improvements to the public realm with the introduction of a vibrant event space, captivating public art and welcoming outdoor areas that will encourage more people to visit and stay in the area longer.

“Supporting economic recovery, this will help to invite people back into local businesses who will be looking to bounce back once restrictions are lifted.

“Our long-term vision remains the same and we hope this initial phase becomes a springboard for future investment and change.”

Holdenhurst Road will close for Lansdowne transformation work

Plans for the initial delivery were approved in November 2020.

At the time, Cllr Broadhead said there were still “significant benefits” and that plans needed to be progressed to ensure a March funding deadline was met.

The council needed to meet the deadline set by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership.

It has required work be implemented by March as a condition for it providing £4.8 million towards the £7.7 million project.

Further improvements to the public realm in the wider area are also being considered as part of this initial phase subject to detailed design, planning approval and funding.

For more information, visit: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/lansdowne.