The search is on for a group of residents to form part of a new Citizens’ Panel that will help shape the future of Bournemouth town centre.
Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale has joined forces with BCP Council Leader Millie Earl to launch the Bournemouth Town Centre Citizens’ Panel.
It will give residents a stronger voice in plans to improve the town centre.
Run in association with Richard Eastham from Bournemouth-based Feria Urbanism, Pier Journal and Patch, the representative panel will include people of different ages, from different backgrounds and will be approximately a 50/50 split of men and women in line with the demographics of the area.
Panellists will attend five creative and productive three-hour sessions at Patch on the first floor of Bobby’s in Bournemouth town centre.
During the sessions from June to November, the panel will learn about the progress already being made and explore what else can be done.
At the end, they will co-create a deliverable action plan outlining who can do what – including the local MP, council, businesses and residents.
The launch of the Citizens’ Panel builds on a number of plans BCP Council has developed, and follows a series of town centre-focused coffee mornings and a town hall event run by Jessica Toale throughout March and April.
The MP said: “The state of Bournemouth town centre is a real concern for so many.
“From fears over crime and antisocial behaviour to a deep longing for the shopping offer of the 80s and 90s, it’s clear that many people are avoiding the town centre altogether so aren’t seeing all the green shoots.
“Bournemouth town centre has such a key role to play in not only the success of the area when it comes to tourism, culture and heritage but is also a key part of our identity.
“We want a place we can all feel proud of, and while there are lots of positives, we still have a way to go and we won’t get there without local people’s involvement.
“I’m really pleased to be launching this Citizens’ Panel alongside Millie to develop a clear, deliverable action plan for Bournemouth Town Centre led by residents from across the area.”
Millie Earl said: “Our focus on tackling the challenges in Bournemouth centre means we are starting to see positive change; new businesses are coming in and confidence is growing.
“We’re working hard to attract more investors and to ensure empty shop units can be brought back to life.
“We’re committed to maintaining this trend by supporting local businesses, working with Business Improvement Districts and doing what we can to attract people back into our vibrant town.
“Everyone has a part to play in ensuring our high street is revitalized, and I’m excited to see the ways in which the new Citizens’ Panel will help Bournemouth evolve and continue to thrive.
“I look forward to working closely with Jess and our residents to keep the positive momentum felt around Bournemouth town centre going this year.”
- To register to be part of the Citizens’ Panel by 27th May go to jessicatoale.com/citizenspanel