BUSINESS leaders and civic chiefs are pressing ahead with plans to make Christchurch and landmark destination for coach trips.

The first steps to achieving 'Coach Friendly Status' came with three coach spaces being put in at Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre last year.

This came after the loss of the bays at Mayors Mead car park.

Bournemouth and Poole already hold the accreditation and BCP Council officers are working to secure the status for the ancient borough.

A preliminary audit of the town took place at a meeting on Tuesday, July 27, attended by John Burch, of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, Cllr Mike Greene and John McVey, of BCP Council, David Squire, chair of the destination management board and Tim Lloyd and Sue Harmon-Smith, of Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Works will now begin, following recommendations from Mr Burch, to facilitate the plans. A future inspection will determine the outcome.

Cllr Mike Greene, portfolio holder for transport, said: “A great deal of work has gone into re-introducing coach parking for Christchurch to enable visitors to our historic town. We hope this is the start of an exciting enterprise that provides a greener way for visitors to travel and enjoy our hospitality.”

Ms Harmon-Smith, chamber secretary and a former tourism manager, said: “Coach travel has always been very important to this town’s tourism economy.

“We’re delighted that we can now offer designated coach parking to further enhance the town’s offering. It is not only the attractions that will benefit but also all those within the hospitality sector such as hotels and restaurants. This will give the travel trade a much-needed boost.”

Read more: Schools to merge to with executive headteacher announced

Mr Squire, chair of the transport sector for the destination management board, said: “It’s wonderful to have coach parking facilities back in Christchurch town centre following the loss of the bays at Mayors Mead.

"This helps us to support our vision to bring tourists into Christchurch with all its attractions and numerous hospitality businesses across the area. It’s also a very green method of travelling with up to 40 fewer cars on the road over any given time."