THE launch of a new council-organised business scheme along the beachfront is to once again be delayed.
Toft Box Park, an “ambitious” initiative for start-up businesses, was initially due to be launched around Easter time this year.
However, BCP Council has now postponed the opening of the scheme, which has had 30 start-up businesses apply to operate from the park, until spring 2024.
Cllr Millie Earl, deputy leader of the council, and the portfolio holder for connected communities, said: “We are postponing the award of site leases for the Toft Beach Box Park shortlisted business operators until spring 2024.
“As the lease agreements for this project are still being finalised, and with the recognition that the operating businesses will wish to maximise the summer peak season trade, the decision was taken to postpone award of site leases till the start of the 2024 season.”
She said the shortlisted applicants, which have not publicly been named, have been contacted by the council and advised that the final awards and contracts will be decided in the new year.
Read more: Weather to blame for Boscombe beach business park delay
“In the meantime, the short-listed business operators - along with other BCP based businesses - can access free business support and grants of up to £5k via the BCP UK Shared Prosperity Scheme on our website: UK Shared Prosperity Fund (bcpcouncil.gov.uk),” Cllr Earl added.
As reported in June, the council had already delayed the opening of the box park, located along Boscombe seafront, due to “severe weather” experienced in March.
Funding for the seafront box park comes from almost £22m from central government’s Towns Fund scheme for Boscombe, with the Toft Box Park costing £140,000.
Read more: Why shipping containers have been placed on Bournemouth beach
Various other projects are planned for Boscombe’s regeneration including a Kings Park learning and skills hub, overhauling transport connections including walking, cycling and bus routes and buying the Royal Arcade to create affordable commercial space for independent businesses.
Are you a business which has been shortlisted? Get in touch via matthew.simpson@newsquest.co.uk.
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