Published on Wednesday 21 July 2021
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have some of the most celebrated seafront and harbour coastline in the UK. This summer, plans are being shared which aim to shape the future priorities along the coast.
Combining leisure beaches and a meandering of harbour inlets, this coastline amounts to a staggering 40-mile stretch, which is all under the custodianship of BCP Council. This coastline is incredibly diverse; ranging from rare, natural habitats to popular tourism beaches and it is important that this is managed in a flexible and responsive way.
The Seafront Development Strategy needs to reflect the Council’s objectives to support the natural environment, encourage enterprise and ambition, and reflect local tastes and desires. In doing so we aim to be one of the best coastal places in the world in which to live, work, play and to attract investment.
It’s also important to recognise and maintain the popular individual character areas across the seafront and ensure investment in facilities, access and infrastructure. Key considerations will be to update ageing infrastructure and to address vulnerability to climate change.
Councillor Mohan Iyengar Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure and Culture said:
"We’ve drafted a set of aims within the Seafront Strategy and now we’ll invite discussion to agree the way forward. The seafront and its many locations have a special place in the hearts of our residents, so the engagement no doubt will be keen. I’ll welcome everyone’s input so that we protect the right things and provide for the future – but let’s also be bold about what could lift and energise our resort in just the right way."
This Seafront Strategy updates previous plans to set out ambitions for a world-class seafront, promoting forward investment in the leisure offer across our coastline for the continuing enjoyment of both residents and visitors.
Have your say on the Seafront Strategy and give your feedback to help inform the priority areas for regeneration and identify actions for a 5-year Seafront Investment Plan.
Find further information and take part in the consultation which runs until 26 September: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/SeafrontStrategy