Neglected Bournemouth billboards: Art or an eyesore?

Three large abandoned billboards in Bournemouth have been dividing opinion amongst residents. 

The billboards situated between Columbia Road and Kinson Road in Bournemouth have been abandoned by the owners. 

Residents have been complaining the abandoned site is an eyesore to drive past, but some have had a different perspective.

Resident David Haith posted photos of the billboards in the Facebook Echo Camera Club where he asked the question "When does eyesore become art - or can it even happen?"

One resident responded: "Not in my eyes."

Another said: "Every time I drive by they are more off than on."

David added: "Advertising's so powerful - but what is it here I'm supposed to buy?"

The matter has been brought up with the council, according to Wallisdown and Winton West ward councillor Nigel Hedges.

Captured by David Haith

Cllr Hedges said: "We have had BCP officers contact the owners and they have, seemingly, lodged for ‘planning’ for that site which may explain why they have let the site fall into ‘abeyance’ and seeming ‘neglect'.

"BCP cannot demand they cut the grass but can enforce on the condition of this prime site.

"It has been, I would assume, to be a propitious commercial operation on a prominent site but I seem to remember there is a similar site in Boscombe that has a similar position of ‘change of use’ request by the owners."

A spokesperson from BCP Council has said: “We have engaged with the site owner who has confirmed they will be employing someone to improve the site in the near future. 

"We will consider action under relevant powers if satisfactory progress is not made later this month."

The spokesperson added: "Meanwhile, we encourage all landowners to respect our communities and make sure they regularly monitor and maintain sites such as these.’’