VEGANS have said more people from around the world come to Bournemouth if BCP Council implemented a plant-based diet. 

A 20-page report was written by several BCP Council officers to look at the viability of the authority offering strictly vegan menus to its cafes and the town hall. 

The report, which did not endorse a strict vegan diet but went along with what the leader Millie Earl previously said to promote it, was discussed by the environment scrutiny panel. 

Several vegans pleaded with councillors to consider in their words the benefits of a diet without meat and dairy. 

Jacob Baker, who recently moved to Bournemouth from Wales, said he came to the town “because of the vibrant community and how vegan-friendly it is”. 

One vegan suggested the Christmas markets become veganOne vegan suggested the Christmas markets become vegan (Image: NQ)

He said: “Some cities like Tokyo in Japan have even asked businesses to do more vegan food to attract plant-based tourists.  

“If we endorsed the Plant Based Treaty I think even more people will want to come here from all over the world.  

“It seems a perfect fit for Bournemouth, and I’m asking you to endorse the Plant Based Treaty and then do a world-class action plan. “ 

Nicola Harris, communications director of Plant Based Treaty from Poole, said a plant-based diet can "help children and their parents understand the link between their food choices and the planet”.  

She added: “It will encourage them to make sustainable choices and opt for plant-based options of their own free will.” 

Sasha Joliffe claimed people are being swayed by “false justifications such as ‘I only buy local’ and ‘smoked salmon is the only source of omega three’ and talk ourselves out of accountability”.  

She added: “Humane slaughter is a contradiction that we shouldn't be deceived by either.” 

Chris Joliffe came up with the “simple” idea of having vegan food at Street Food Corner in the Lower Gardens and a vegan Christmas market. 

Andy Hadley, cabinet member for the environment Andy Hadley, cabinet member for the environment (Image: Daily Echo)

Cabinet member for the environment Andy Hadley said: “We recognise that change to plant-based or reduced meat and dairy diet is an important component to reducing our personal carbon footprint. 

“Cabinet [...] felt we should promote and encourage rather than mandate plant-based options. 

“As acknowledged, our direct influence over schools is limited whereas government can legislate for mandatory change, our powers are quite limited.” 

Neighbouring Dorset Council recently adopted the Countryside Alliance's campaign to support local farmers and keep meat on the table.