PLANS for new business and academic space at Talbot Village were shown to the public this week.

An exhibition on the Talbot Project, which includes proposals for new university buildings, a ‘digital employment village’ for IT firms, transport improvements and added protection for Talbot Heath, was held at Bournemouth University on Monday.

Many residents from the neighbourhood attended to look at the proposals and provide feedback via consultation forms, and they were joined by people from further afield who use the heath for recreational purposes.

Among those present were Paul and Sally Yeandle, from nearby Keith Road.

"It sounds like a good idea to expand the potential of the university," said Mr Yeandle, 73.

"It looks like they are going to turn it into a lush area, although it is at such an early stage that it is difficult to say what it will look like at the end.

"That is a bit of a concern for us. This is not a planning application and I can't help thinking these plans will change."

Mrs Yeandle, 70, said they were also concerned about how development might affect parking in the area.

Tony Percik, 68, said he was a regular user of Talbot Heath and was keen that it be preserved.

"It is possible to walk most of the distance from Broadstone to the coast this way, we need to protect that," he said.

"I was concerned about the new road coming off the Boundary roundabout but as I understand it now it won't encroach on the heath."

Mr Percik, who lives in Alderney, said he was very supportive of the IT business park plans.

The exhibition revealed more information about the proposals, which, after consultation, will form a ‘supplementary planning document’ directing development in the area.

The digital village, intended to house companies specialising in computer games, mobile technology and computer generated animation, is proposed to occupy land at Highmoor Farm, on the eastern side of the heath.

It would be connected to the main road network via a new access onto the Boundary roundabout.

Partners in the Talbot Project are the Talbot Village Trust, Bournemouth University, Arts University Bournemouth, Borough of Poole and Bournemouth Borough Council.

For more information on the plans visit www.poole.gov.uk/talbotvillagespd.