BCP Council proposes seafront strategy to create a 'world class' coastline between Christchurch and Poole

BCP Council has unveiled proposals to turn the seafront between Christchurch and Poole into a “world class” coastline.

It has launched a consultation into a draft seafront strategy setting out 20-year priorities for investment and improvement, plus a range of projects for certain areas.

Among them is a new building at Hengistbury Head which could include an artist studio, wellness space and “beach sauna”.

At Highcliffe beach there is a proposal to introduce water sports concessions, while at Friars Cliff extra beach huts could be built.

A review of the future management of the leisure operation is suggested at Avon beach to “ensure best value for the taxpayer”. It would also like to build on connecting the cycle route to Highcliffe where more facilities for watersports could be introduced along with showers and lockers.

At Mudeford Spit the council is proposing to overhaul the toilet and shower facilities, and invest in the jetty and passenger boats.

It is also proposing to increase ownership of the beach huts in the area, the majority of

which are privately owned, to “enable wider use” and increase income.

At Christchurch harbour the council said the priority will be on protecting the environment and “avoiding overdevelopment of leisure”, while at the quay an “event site” could be created.

BCP Council manages more than 40 miles of coastline which includes seafront, harbourside areas and sites of sensitive natural environments.

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, cabinet member for tourism, leisure and culture, said: “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.”

People are being invited to study the document and make their own input into the future of one of the coastline.

A council spokesperson said: “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.”

The consultation is running until 26th September. Visit bcpcouncil.gov.uk/SeafrontStrategy