Phase Two of Bournemouth’s Pier Approach Improvements will start in September following £2million grant

A £2million investment by the Coastal Communities Fund in Bournemouth Borough Council’s 20-year Seafront Strategy will enable the council to progress with the transformation of Pier Approach, and specifically the street scene to the west of the Pier.

The next stage of the Pier Approach Improvements Phase Two will go ahead completing the major public realm scheme which covers the western side of this landmark site.

Last year the council, worked with the Dorset Coastal Community Team (DCCT) led by the Dorset Coast Forum to develop the Dorset Coastal Connections – People and Places project to submit a Dorset wide ‘Coastal Connections’ bid for £5.6m funding to deliver 18 improvement projects across the coastline.

The Forum will work with numerous partners and coastal communities to develop and deliver each part of Dorset Coastal Connections over the next two-and-a-half years.

As part of the Council’s Seafront Strategy, Pier Approach has already benefited from a £4m investment programme. The contemporary gateway from the gardens to the seafront now attracts families and visitors to the water play feature and the vibrant atmosphere, whilst at night the area is lit up by colourful low-energy displays.

Councillor John Beesley, Leader of the Council, said; “We are delighted to have been awarded this additional government funding towards the council’s 20-year Seafront Strategy.

“Improving the gateway from the gardens to the seafront is a key priority for the council and is another step towards creating a world-class resort.

“Pier Approach is a vital part of the seafront as it has been a destination for visitors to Bournemouth for over 150 years. It is the central point of the seven miles of seafront and the link between the town, the gardens and the beach.

“This investment will enable the council to progress with phase two of the Pier Approach transformation programme. Once complete it will showcase the area and help to attract investment to fund the other projects identified in the strategy.

“Bournemouth is bursting with award-winning gardens, parks and beaches and the redevelopment of Pier Approach demonstrates the quality of what the resort has to offer. The town retains its crown as the best UK coastal resort, not least because of the high-quality attractions and continuing investment.”

Work to deliver Bournemouth’s Pier Approach Improvements Phase Two will start in September 2017 and complete in time for the 2018 summer season.