Residents shared ideas with MP Jessica Toale for improving Bournemouth town centre, focusing on character and safety.
Her office focuses on key areas and wants to make real changes. Housing was a past focus. The next focus is the town center, and it will last two months.
Darren Harris, a police chief, attended too. He reassured residents about policing issues. He also answered their questions.
One person misses past shopping investments. They think other towns like Brighton did better. Castlepoint is now too popular, according to them.
People think the town center needs rezoning. Bournemouth stores are too spread out. Smaller towns like Wimborne thrive. “Reclaim Bournemouth and Poole,” someone said. People feel BCP lacks identity.
Toale wants a town center with character. She discussed repurposing spaces in Parliament. Harris said safety affects town center visits.
People remembered old tourist spots. Swimming baths and an ice rink came up. They think Bournemouth needs indoor fun. It would attract visitors year-round, as weather is often unpredictable.
Entertainment helps local young people too. Some suggested creating youth hubs. Toale and Harris praised youth programs. They mentioned boxing and C.A.M Club. These support kids in West Howe.
Parking costs worry many residents. Retailers suffer versus free Castlepoint parking. Toale finds inconsistent parking prices.
“Stuff to do” matters, she said. “People will want to come” then. Someone suggested free buses instead. This would ensure fairness, while free parking might cause traffic.
One resident criticized flat developments. They take over needed parking spaces. “Bournemouth is becoming overdeveloped,” they noted. They want parking for visitors.
Another person fears losing old buildings. They voiced concern about losing character. “Bournemouth should be a tourist spot,” they said. Shops alone don’t equal culture. “The planning department” is a problem.
Toale states town centers have changed. “What people come to them for” matters now. She wants more people living downtown. Thriving areas have more residents already.
People want more visible police. “Aggressive begging” feels unsafe to some. It happens near ATMs. Horseshoe Common has drug activity.
Harris plans more visible patrols by 2026. “Crime is going down” but safety matters. Work is happening at Horseshoe Common. They want lasting solutions near there.
One person is worried about neglected chines. A stabbing happened at Durley Chine Beach. They cited poor lighting and patrols. Harris will share these concerns.
Another worry is illegal e-bikes. Skateboards are a problem too. “E-bikes are running people over,” they said. Police are learning from others’ solutions.
Other issues arose during the meeting. Concerns included flat leaseholders’ issues, rat problems, and year-round markets.