Bill Cotton, Bournemouth Borough Council’s Executive Director for Environment & Economy was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Ambassadors of Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Bill was invited to give an overview of key developments planned and taking place in Bournemouth. Bill said;
“As a Council, we are continuing to position Bournemouth as place where businesses want to invest in, and provide an environment that will attract the very best talent.
“Talent, transport access, digital connectivity and good quality office space all influence the decisions of businesses as to where to locate. In an age where technology is allowing more flexible and mobile working, increasingly what locations can offer in terms of ‘lifestyle’ is also having a much greater influence. All these factors are helping to make Bournemouth a very attractive place to invest
“The spotlight on Bournemouth is significant, we’ve already seen a combination of both private and public sector investment over the years. It’s this enthusiasm for growth which helps the town to retain its status as a top UK destination in a highly competitive market and it doesn’t show any sign of slowing down.
“We are competing in a global market and this investment will further cement Bournemouth’s position meaning we can compete with locations from across the world to attract businesses.”
The opening of the Hilton and Hampton by Hilton hotels in the town centre, and the BH2 leisure complex have been among the most visible of a wave of developments.
The Council’s recent work with the Ordnance Survey to provide a test bed environment for the mapping tool required to deploy 5G puts Bournemouth at the forefront of plans to introduce 5G mobile coverage. Supporting new technologies such as 5G is fundamental in continuing to build Bournemouth’s digital infrastructure, leading to long term economic growth.
The Lansdowne is set to benefit from a multi-million government investment to position this part of town as the region’s biggest commercial district.
A £5m project to transform Bournemouth’s Pier Approach continues with work currently underway to improve the iconic gateway to the beach.
Working in partnership with the Bournemouth Development Company, the Council plans to develop a £150million scheme at the Winter Gardens car park. If approved by Planning Board we will see the largest project of its kind undertaken in the town centre, bringing with it quality homes which will boost economic activity and be an onward catalyst for growth.
The creation of a landmark ‘cultural quarter’ overlooking Bournemouth’s world-famous seafront is underway following the appointment of leading international designers Zaha Hadid Architects.
The Council is continuing to support AFC Bournemouth in their plans to develop a new stadium in Kings Park.
Bournemouth Council will continue to engage with Partners such as the Chambers and Dorset LEP.
Steve Bendell, a Chamber Ambassador who was at the meeting commented; “Bill is clearly very passionate about his role with the Council, whilst having a down to earth approach about what can be achieved. There are clearly challenges ahead on a number of fronts but it is evident the investment in Bournemouth is seen as crucial to compete with and stay ahead of coastal rivals.”