AN “ambitious” programme of outdoor events is coming to the BCP area in May.

As part of BCP Council’s bounce back plans, Festival Coast Live! is being planned for late May and will have a programme of outdoor activities and events across the conurbation.

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, lead member for Festival Coast Live, said: “I am excited to be launching Festival Coast Live!

“As Covid-19 measures are lifted, which we hope will be by late May, our focus will be on creating and delivering events and activities engaging with professional and community artists, musicians and dance groups entertaining though a series of outdoor pop-up event experiences.

“These will celebrate live music, dance, food, heritage, culture, literature, health and fitness, wellbeing, and lifestyle. We really want people to get behind us, get involved and celebrate what we hope will be a fantastic 2021.”

Aimed at animating spaces with street entertainment and pop up event experiences at core outdoor locations, the council hopes Festival Coast Live! will showcase what makes Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and its communities so special for people who live, visit, holiday, and work in the area.

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, portfolio holder for economy, tourism and culture, added: “We are proud to be a diverse resort, looking for ways to give residents and visitors that little bit extra.

“Once restrictions are lifted according to the government’s guidance we will be welcoming many visitors this summer.

“Festival Coast Live! will showcase a terrific mix of local talent and entertainment, and its ‘fringe’ style will take people to a wider spread of locations on the seafront and in town centres.

“It’s also a way to get things moving again fast, to support businesses, jobs and local talent.

“Festival Coast Live! will support our recovery this year and in future years as it evolves."

A key component in delivering the Festival Coast Live! events and activities programme is that BCP Council will also be offering small community grants to existing activity organisers to enhance their event and assist with Covid-19 measures, as well as helping individuals, groups or organisations who want to be part of the pop-up experiences.

For more information visit bcpcouncil.gov.uk/festivalcoastlive.