Four major projects are to go ahead to regenerate Boscombe.

The Towns Fund programme, which has been approved by the BCP Cabinet, will create a new neighbourhood in the heart of the town with 53 new homes, a small park, a community centre and a health facility. Also on the agenda are improved digital connectivity, enhanced transport and walking links, plus the sympathetic restoration of Royal Arcade.

This means that business cases will be put forward for final approval from the government, and a decision will be known in the spring.

As far as the local transport schemes are concerned, four projects have been highlighted as a priority – cycle and footpaths along the A35 between Woodland Walk and Boscombe precinct; a new pilot mini-bus service connecting Pokesdown Station to Boscombe Pier via Hawkwood Road, to run April to October during off peak hours; improving safety along Ashley Road by improving local walkways between Centenary Roundabout and Kings Park Academy and local walking and park improvements to Woodland Walk, open space and encouraging use.

The façade of the Grade II listed Royal Arcade will be restored to create 183 jobs and to enhance the area’s Victorian heritage. The plans are to renovate the ground floor, creating an exciting leisure destination which will feature a food hall and independent retail. There are also plans to offer entertainment events for all ages.

The first floor will offer flexible workspace and digital skills and learning, to include the Boscombe Skills hub, which will shortly be moving into the engagement hub on the ground floor.

Delivery on digital connectivity has commenced due to accelerated funding in 2020. There is already free public Wi-Fi available in the Precinct area of Boscombe. Work is now underway to extend digital connectivity and free Wi-Fi down from Precinct to the sea front.

Cllr Phil Broadhead, deputy leader of BCP Council and portfolio holder for Regeneration said: “It’s really exciting to see the Towns Fund projects moving rapidly into delivery stage, which has been made possible through widespread community support. From safer travel to digital connectivity, from new homes to the restoration of one of the most beautiful buildings in the BCP area, these projects will help make a positive difference to the town and all its residents.

“The future of Boscombe is not just bright; it’s coming quicker than we think.”

Cllr Jane Kelly, portfolio holder for Communities, Health and Leisure said: “I’m extremely encouraged by the progress that is being made in Boscombe as part of the Towns Fund programme.

“Boscombe has so much potential, and I am so looking forward to seeing all the changes that are planned which will directly benefit all our residents, from job creation to a new neighbourhood.

“This is a programme which has been shaped by local people. I have spoken to many of our residents who have been asking for a community centre for many years, so I am delighted that we are able to offer this much-needed facility which will be part of the revitalised town.”