The seafront stretching from Christchurch to Poole could by the end of next year become a cleaner, waste free attraction.

An innovative hub-facility dedicated to achieving a step-change in the reduction  of waste  and elimination of single use packaging has been given the go-ahead.

The Environmental Innovation Hub will highlight the impact of plastic packaging and waste on our seafront. With around 2,000 tons of waste removed from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole’s beaches every year, the hub will take a  lead on recycling in public spaces and focus BCP Council’s  efforts to educate and change behaviour along the seafront, linking closely with the Leave Only Footprints campaign.

Interactive and temporary displays are being developed in collaboration with  both Bournemouth University and the University of Southampton focusing on the environmental impact of waste management and single use packaging on the coastal environment. The intention is also to reach further afield with interactive touch points located along 10 miles of coastline.

Funded with £2.4 million from the Coastal Communities Fund, the Durley Environmental Innovation Hub will give residents and millions of seafront visitors the opportunity  to explore and understand the environmental impact of packaging, waste and climate change on our fragile coasts and seas.

Work is expected to take around nine months and should be finished  in time for the new academic term 2021 COVID-19 restrictions allowing.