PLANS to transform Bournemouth's former Beales building have been exclusively unveiled to the Daily Echo.

And the scheme includes a rooftop garden, indoor swimming pool and gym.

Still in its early stages, developers have been in discussion with Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s planning department regarding their intentions for the site.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Chris Orrell, director of East Cliff Property Ltd who own the building said: “Beales had been a great attraction for retail in the town for many years. The development proposal is a mixture of residential and retail with idea to retain the building's heritage value.

“The development plan offers top quality amenities including indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, roof top garden, bike parking and storage facility.

“We are putting together a proposition that will facilitate the revitalisation of the town centre.”

East Cliff Properties Ltd, a subsidiary of SinoGulf, bought Beales in December 2020 and confirmed it does not plan to utilise the building in terms of temporary units etc, prior to development.

They added: “Preliminary planning has been sought and the design is progressing. The next step is to seek full planning authorisation.

“Following approval we will commence construction.”

SinoGulf - which has a property portfolio that includes the largest business park in Abu Dhabi and a four-star hotel operated by Radisson in Mecca - expects the development to be completed within two years of receiving planning permission.

With the closure of large town centre stores including New Look and House of Fraser, concerns have been raised about the state of the town centre and the number of empty units.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We have not had any planning applications for the Beales building as yet, although the planning team have been in contact with owners as their plans are forming. This is an important landmark in our high street and it’s important that any redevelopment there is right for the regeneration of the area.

“BCP Council’s investment into Beale Place has created a contemporary space for shoppers, businesses, visitors and workers to enjoy in a busy part of Bournemouth town centre. Other businesses which closed in that area have seen new operators open, and it is becoming a thriving hub – which is why the Bournemouth BID team are planning some great events for Beale’s Place this year to support that trend.

“Furthermore, more than five million pounds extra is proposed in our 2022/23 budget to continue unlocking regeneration opportunities alongside an additional £8.2 million proposed to continue maximising positivity and pride in place including with a focus on street cleaning, revitalisation and safety.”