Published on Friday 10 July 2020
On Wednesday 29 July, Cabinet will consider proposed highway changes for Holdenhurst Road as part of the delivery of phase one of the vision for Lansdowne.
Holdenhurst Road and the wider Lansdowne area remains the focus for major investment plans that will transform the public realm and create new spaces for people to enjoy.
In late 2019 some indicative designs of the planned improvement works and future ambitions for the area were showcased during a public consultation, aiming to reduce through traffic along Holdenhurst Road and create a more pedestrian focused and welcoming environment for local residents, businesses and the wider conurbation.
Responding to feedback from local bus operators and taking into consideration the economic impact of COVID-19 on businesses, plans will now focus on changes that will deliver the greatest benefits for the community in the shortest possible time, with future phases continuing to deliver the Lansdowne Vision, subject to funding.
Revised plans will include closing the lower third of Holdenhurst Road to general traffic, except for buses, servicing and cycling, from Cotlands Road Junction to Lansdowne Roundabout with priority given to pedestrians when possible. Detailed plans will be available to view during a public consultation held later this year.
Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Infrastructure, said:
"Our long-term vision for creating attractive, vibrant and green public spaces at Lansdowne and encouraging more sustainable journeys around the area remains unchanged. Following delays to start of the works caused by the pandemic, it’s right that we now look at a more focussed scheme, making changes which support our local bus operators at this difficult time.’’
Martin Davies, chairman of Bournemouth Town Centre BID, which covers the Lansdowne said:
"I am delighted to see this part of Bournemouth receiving the attention it deserves.
"I am sure that the wider business community and traders, residents and visitors will also be very pleased. This is a hugely important and vibrant part of the town and has so much more to offer.
"This is a good response by BCP Council to the effects of coronavirus and anything that boosts economic development for our town is to be warmly welcomed, especially in these tough times.’'
Additional information
The Cabinet report will be published today (Friday 10 July) and be available to view here.
Prior to Cabinet, the matter will be discussed at Overview and Scrutiny Board meeting on Monday 20 July. See agenda here.