A GROWING vegan community in the Bournemouth Triangle branded the ‘Vegan Triangle’ are said to be positively impacting the area but are calling for more support from the council.

Vegan shops, restaurants and cafes in the Triangle have seen increased popularity and suggest that their presence has improved the area but argue that the BCP Council should be sending more investments their way.

Aly Samir, manager of Pondok Fresh Falafel & Juice, said: “The area is getting nicer but there are still issues.

“Our customers are people who live in Bournemouth. People visiting Bournemouth from elsewhere are only going to the other side of the town (the town centre).

“That’s where the investment is going. Everything is happening there, not here.

“We need investment into this area. It’s a good area but it could be much better.”

Bournemouth Echo:

A newer member of the ‘Vegan Triangle’, Mighty Wieners, agreed that the town centre was the council’s focus, but the eatery said it has tried to make its own impact on the area.

Owner Kate Butterworth said: “We’ve done what we can.

“Anti-social behaviour was quite prevalent in this area when we first opened.

“We’re here every day and we’ve tried to make the area look a bit nicer which seems to have shifted behaviour elsewhere.

Bournemouth Echo:

“So, I think we’ve made a difference."

The ‘Vegan Triangle’ has also helped to push for healthier lifestyles within the area.

Federica Sitidiei, manager of the Mad Cucumber in the Triangle, said: “You can find a lot of processed food around so it’s nice to have an area with options for more natural and organic food.”

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, BCP Council's portfolio holder for culture and vibrant places, said: “Revitalising Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is a key priority, and this certainly includes work at the Triangle.

“As part of this we will soon be looking at innovative and sustainable ways of bringing even more investment and regeneration into the Triangle.

“We are working with Bournemouth BID and local traders on some really exciting plans to maximise positivity and pride in the area, including a focus on public art and entertainment, street cleaning and safety.

“Furthermore, the GIANT Gallery is bringing art installations into the Triangle over the spring and summer, engaging with the public and reaching new audiences that will bring people to this vibrant area of the town.”