Project `spark to regenerate area'

From the Echo, first published Tuesday 21st Oct 2003.

MULTI-MILLION pound plans for shops, offices and homes on the site of Bournemouth's former C&A store were approved by borough planners last night.

Despite objections from two local residents, planning board members backed the major scheme set to regenerate the Triangle area.

Robert Kay of developer Stallion, who expects big High Street names to sign up to the project, said: "The Triangle has become very cold, very lonely and very quiet since the closure of C&A four years ago.

"I totally believe in this scheme and think it is going to be the spark that regenerates the area."

The borough's head of technical services Trevor Sill said there were no highway objections to the proposals which will include 12 shops and 80 homes; 65 for sale and 15 for rent as affordable housing.

Cllr John Beesley described the proposed development as "an exciting scheme" adding: "The regeneration of the Triangle, particularly in terms of retail, is very important. It does require something large to kick-start it."

But he voiced concern over potential parking problems, landscaping, refuse provision and the narrow access road, warning: "We need to be clear that it is up to the job."

Backing the scheme, Cllr Tony Ramsden said: "I love it. I love the design. The broad principles are to be welcomed and congratulated."

Vice chairman Cllr Ron Whittaker said he was convinced the development "would bring people back to Bournemouth. "This investment is desperately needed," he added.

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