‘Gamechanger’ Bournemouth regeneration plans approved

Regeneration plans by Bournemouth Development Company for the iconic Winter Gardens site in Bournemouth have been granted planning permission.

The £150m scheme will see 350 homes built as well as new restaurant units and an improved pedestrian area.

The council says it will generate new jobs, attract more visitors all year round, and make the town centre a ‘more exciting and enjoyable place to visit for local residents.’

It will also preserve and improve 225 public parking spaces that are currently on the Winter Gardens site.

Cllr John Beesley, leader of Bournemouth Council, said: ‘Over the last six years Bournemouth has seen unprecedented levels of development. This latest scheme will further demonstrate the success of the Council’s Town Centre Vision which has seen £300m of development completed and £200m currently in the construction phase.

‘This level of development would be impressive in any town or city, but for Bournemouth is a real game changer.

Winter Gardens is the most significant Bournemouth Development Company scheme to be approved. It has already delivered student flats and parking in Madeira Road, housing in the Citrus Building at Horseshoe Common, and housing and parking at Berry Court on St Peter’s Road.

Ian Girling, chief executive of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce, added: ‘Today’s news contributes to a bold vision for Bournemouth.

‘The Winter Gardens is more than just a housing and leisure development, it is a strategic statement of what I believe the town and wider conurbation can become in the future – a true city by the sea.

‘The huge economic boost that Winter Gardens will bring will be great for businesses, jobs, and the tourism sector, and we’re very pleased to see today’s approval.’