MEMBERS of the public alongside civic bosses and business representatives have given generally positive reactions to the major Boscombe Towns Fund plans, unveiled yesterday.
Two years after first giving their thoughts on what they would like to see as part of a new vision for Boscombe, residents were able to view the £23million Towns Fund proposals to transform the area’s infrastructure, transport, retail sector and housing.
Towns Fund programme manager Martha Covell led the presentation unveiling plans before fielding questions from those in attendance, with questions ranging from concerns over parking to help for businesses.
Read more: Major plans to revamp Boscombe with brand new neighbourhood
Following the presentation, Ms Covell told the Echo: “I think people are very excited about this and have been positive, mainly because they’re desperate for something to happen here so it’s been great to talk to people face to face.
“We need to spend our Towns Fund money by March 2026 but the project will roll on certainly for 10 years or more, it’s about kick starting the regeneration of Boscombe.”
Ward councillor George Farquhar was in attendance and told the Echo: “It’s fantastic that they’ll finally be coming into fruition but a ten-year phase I think is something that needs to be sold because in that time I imagine plans will evolve.”
- Read more: Major plans unveiled to revamp Boscombe
He also said he hoped the thoughts given by residents in the 2019 Boscombe and Pokesdown Neighbourhood Plan Referendum were taken into account by planners, adding: “My questions will be based around what was on that Neighbourhood Plan to make sure the town’s fund is actually serving those desires.
“So overall I’m pleased but with that slight trepidation that we don’t overlook what the community has already fed back.”
One Boscombe resident said: “I’m always hopeful but fear there could be a disconnect with the plans and reality. I also think we should know where all the money is going into specifically. But I’m always hopeful, an increase in affordable housing is needed so we’re pleased about that. I’d actually increase it.”
Sonia Shaw of Coastal BID said: “From what we can see at the moment this Towns Fund does represent an exciting future and prospect for our traders to make Boscombe a better destination. More footfall means more trade, and that’s a part of the plans we like.
“Parking is obviously a question that has been brought up, but I’d say the Towns Fund has listened to traders and the public on this.
“Anything positive happening in the community is going to have a touch point on all of us. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s going to happen here. I feel like Boscombe is a gem that just needs a push.”
Councillor Jane Kelly, lead member for communities, health and leisure, added: “The proposals we are making for Boscombe and the surrounding area have been influenced by what the community told us was important to them.
“I would urge residents to take part in our survey and help shape future plans towards a revitalized town centre with improved connectivity to the surrounding area.”
An engagement hub on the plans is open between Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 2pm at the old Café Nero in Christchurch Road by Royal Arcade.
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