AN ICE rink? A fairground? Or just let the town's natural beauty speak for itself?

After the plans for the Solar Pyramid were scrapped last week, Poole's tourism chiefs remained steadfast in their belief the town is still in need for a major tourist attraction.

So we asked you for your opinions on the matter and Echo readers have jumped at the chance to join the debate.

Suggestions as to what sort of attraction the town could benefit from have ranged from new leisure facilities to a viewing platform akin to Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower.

However, just as many of you believe Poole's natural wonders are already a tourist attraction in their own right, and that tourism chiefs should look to enhance what the town already has to offer.

Poole's tourism manager Graham Richardson said a feature vessel, along the lines of the Mary Rose or HMS Victory, would fit in well with the town's maritime history. He also said bringing large cruise ships to the quay would prove a big draw for spectators.

"You only need look at the amount of people that congregate on the dock at Southampton when the big liners come in," said Mr Richardson.

Former Dorset county councillor Mike Pauley suggested a pyramid structure containing a hotel and casino, built next to the lifting bridge.

Joining the debate on the Echo website, Carl Barron suggested a world-class swimming pool or ice rink.

He said: "Poole has a vast community of active people, both young and old. I feel sure they would benefit a lot from such a venture."

Dancingdog777, from Christchurch, thought the town could benefit from a large fairground. "Why don't they consider an all year round fairground similar to Blackpool?"

Mrs J Marks said a tall viewing tower would offer spectacular views.

Nick, from Bournemouth, said more focus should be put on wet-weather attractions.

Godzilla, from Hamworthy, believes improvements to the infrastructure should be the starting point. "Let's improve the road system - the bridge for a start," he said. "That would be a benefit to tourists, as would a good bus service for the visitors to use rather than trying to find parking."

Many website readers suggested a return by Poole Pottery to the quay as it always used to bring in the tourists.