CHRISTCHURCH'S rich heritage is something which must be protected, say plans looking at the borough's regeneration.
As part of BCP Council's Local Plan, the council has made clear the historic assets held so precious by the borough are key to its future.
Proposals which form part of this stage of BCP Council's developing Local Plan, include potential redevelopment of land around Stony Lane, better pedestrian connections around the town centre and across Fountain roundabout and improvements at Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre.
However, the proposals are not a draft of the plan, but a range of options the council want feedback on.
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The document, which is currently out to public consultation, says the conurbation has three distinctive town centres "with different characteristics, needs and opportunities".
The document says while the "scale of opportunity" in Christchurch is more limited, but there is still scope for the development of key sites around Stony Lane although there are issues around potential flood risk.
It adds: "Christchurch is a place rich in history, character and beauty which requires a balance of heritage-led regeneration and protection."
In part of the plan specifically referencing Christchurch, it says: "Christchurch town centre has an attractive environment, and the Priory, Castle and historic high street are significant visitor attractions.
"Like Bournemouth and Poole, Christchurch has struggled to adapt to the changing retail environment however there are a range of independent shops and restaurants.
"The centre does not offer the range of opportunities as Bournemouth and Poole but there is still scope for improvement."
Other improvements include the redevelopment of the Lanes - which are south of the high street - and Saxon Square with mixed use development.
And other schemes include:
• enhancing the pedestrian connections around the centre and across Fountain Roundabout.
• undertaking improvements to streets and public spaces.
• delivering strategic flood risk defences to protect the town from future flood risk.
• supporting improvements at Two Riversmeet Leisure Complex.
• embracing community-led and cultural initiatives that support regeneration.
• enhancing wayfinding/signage to help improve connections between the waterfront areas and the rest of the town centre.
The issues and options consultation is open to feedback, responses and alternative ideas until March 7.
Details can be found online at haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/localplan. Residents can view the consultation online, download and print a PDF copy or pick up a summary paper survey from one of the council’s libraries.
Following the issues and options consultation, the council will produce a draft Local Plan, which would go out for public feedback.
The local authority currently expects to submit its Local Plan to the Secretary of State in spring next year before an independent planning inspector examines it in detail in autumn 2023.
If all of these hurdles are cleared, the policy document would be adopted and used to inform decisions on planning applications from early 2024.
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