THERE will be no dedicated investment in seasonal response next year despite the success of the council's £1.7million fund this summer.

The local authority’s handling of the peak tourist period in 2022 has been heralded by senior councillors.

The seven-figure investment was used for increased litter management, additional cleansing of toilet facilities, an extended park and ride scheme and increased communications to residents and visitors.

However, next year there will be no specific funding allocation to support the multi-agency work.

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This came to light in the latest report on the council’s corporate performance.

Announcing the £1.7m for 2022 in March, the local authority said it would build upon the response from the previous year.

A report on how this year went published last month said it had been a “great success”, with the additional funds allowing increased output and enhanced resort management and public safety.

It said only £1.2m of the £1.7m was spent. The allocation of the leftover money was under review and consideration was under way to extend the approach throughout the winter period.

However, Councillor Beverley Dunlop, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for tourism, said the allocation for 2022 was a “one-off” additional investment responding to the pandemic and more people choosing to holiday at home.

Bournemouth Echo:

“As a leading tourism destination, we are highly experienced in managing our resort and the increase in visitor numbers during busy summer months,” Cllr Dunlop said.

“We take a cross council collaborative approach to stimulate local economic growth, protect our beautiful environment, support our residents and provide a safe and friendly destination for all.”

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She said this approach will be maintained next year.

As reported, the council needs to deliver more than £40million of “savings and efficiencies” to deliver a balanced budget.

Cllr Dunlop said: “Our summer response plan was a one-off additional investment responding to the Covid-19 pandemic and the welcome rush to more people choosing to holiday at home.

“Building on this work and looking to the future, our seasonal response going forward will now be incorporated into our seafront services, starting next year.’’