THREE conservation groups have joined forces to stand against what they have called “the horrendous architectural design proposals” for Poole’s regeneration.

The Vision for Poole Committee, comprising the Society of Poole Men, Poole Old Town Conservation Group and the Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England, has been stung into action by a series of proposals they call “threats to the character of Poole”.

They are demanding a halt to the “avalanche of building” until a cohesive overall architectural design guide is implemented.

In a damming letter to all councillors they listed a number of grievances, accusing developers of “trying to squeeze as many buildings on their site to maximise profits”, branding some proposed designs “ugly”, and criticising the infrastructure and school provision supporting proposed flats.

The newly formed group has highlighted several major developments in the pipeline.

These include plans for 1,674 homes on the Hamworthy power station site, a proposal for a hotel, 127 flats, offices and restaurants on the former Sunseeker site, and the application for 440 homes, plus shops and offices on West Quay Road – previously branded a “carbuncle”.

In a joint statement they said about one third of central Poole would be rebuilt in the next few years, setting “the appearance of Poole in concrete for the next 100 years”.

Colin Jones, chairman of the Society of Poole Men, said: “Poole deserves a well-planned and co-ordinated vision for the next 100 years. We must recall the mistakes that have blighted Poole in the past and build a town to be proud of.”

Bill Constance, chairman of Poole Old Town Conservation Group, said regeneration would “impact on the lives of future generations.”

Richard Genge, Poole council’s planning and regeneration manager, said the council had “clear design guidelines” and if schemes differed from them, developers needed to “demonstrate why their application should be recommended for approval”.

He welcomed residents’ opinions, adding: “The community will be actively involved in any new guidance,” but said it would be “impossible to halt all development” as the council is “statutorily obliged to consider applications”.