Published on Wednesday 17 March 2021
Works to transform the Lansdowne area and create an exciting and attractive place for residents, businesses and visitors have commenced.
Aiming to become a steppingstone for attracting future investment in Lansdowne, the improvements to the public realm on Holdenhurst Road will include:
- A new event space in the heart of Lansdowne’s main business district
- Public art
- New seating areas
- A protected cycle lane
- New Infrastructure for local buses
- Additional pedestrian crossings
Holdenhurst Road, from Station Roundabout to Lansdowne Roundabout, has now been temporarily closed to vehicles. A route will remain open for people walking and cycling along Holdenhurst Road, with access to all businesses maintained throughout.
The council intends to be finished on-site in advance of the busiest part of the summer period to support local businesses and economic recovery as more people visit the area. Following the completion of this initial phase, the road will be fully reopened.
Councillor Philip Broadhead, BCP Council Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy, said:
"I am delighted to announce that works on the ground are already underway and over the coming months you’ll be able to see our transformational vision for Lansdowne at last take shape.
"We will do everything we can to complete this initial phase of improvements as quickly as possible and I encourage you to continue to support local businesses, plan your journey’s ahead of time and consider walking or cycling wherever possible.’’
The improvements represent the first stage of BCP Council’s long-term transformational vision for Lansdowne. Future improvements are currently being considered for the wider area, subject to funding.
To deliver this scheme, £4.8 million in government funding has been secured by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) through the Local Growth Deal and a further £2.9 million of council match funding provided from local contributions.
Lorna Carver, Dorset LEP Director, says:
"Our Lansdowne Business District project will breathe new life into the heart of Bournemouth. It will support existing businesses and encourage start-ups through the implementation of superfast technology and improved public services. This investment is predicted to create £121 million in GVA over the next 25 years."