CAMPAIGNERS have made a last-ditch plea to council bosses to overturn plans to demolish a community building.

The derelict Boscombe Centre for Community Arts (BCCA) building in Haviland Road is due to be knocked down imminently to make way for housing.

Last week, supporters of the BCCA protested outside the town hall ahead of a cabinet meeting and on Tuesday supporters addressed councillors at a full council meeting in a bid to change their minds.

Harry Seccombe, one of the founders of the Boscombe Forum, asked why the feelings of the community had been ignored.

Council leader Cllr John, Beesley, pictured left, said it had listened and had done so since the current administration took office in 2007, but the building was “simply not financially viable”.

“Having listened to feedback from residents, we firmly believe that the development of family housing and the creative hub will do a great deal for the area,” he said.

Writer Peter John Cooper, pictured right, made a passionate plea to councillors.

He said: “Once the roof is smashed in and the walls pulled down, nothing can be done and the heritage is lost forever.

“You know the significance of the building as one of the first drama centres in the UK.

“There have been deputations by hundreds of residents and businesses.

“They desperately need the work of the centre to continue.

“There are other, better, housing options in Boscombe but this is the only centre for the arts in the whole conurbation. Do not knock the heart out of the community.”

Linda Ni’Man, of the Friends of BCCA, also spoke to ask the council to “do what’s right” and overturn the decision.