Town Centre: Positives and negatives

The latest Town Centre BID Business Breakfast focused in large part on crime and safety.

Eight levy payers from all sectors took part in a lively discussion at the BrassHaus in Westover Road with BID Chief Operating Officer Paul Kinvig and Business Liaison Officer Susie O’Neill.

The group agreed that more town centre living will play a key role in Bournemouth’s future and that visitors need more reasons to come in.

There was frustration about lack of general awareness some of the excellent retail businesses in town but the key discussion centred on lack of policing, and  the challenges in the reporting of crime.

However, the view was widely shared that visitors have a much more positive view of Bournemouth than residents.

Mr Kinvig said: “I never cease to be amazed at just how fascinating these get togethers are and the real insight they give us into what our levy payers are thinking and feeling.

“They are invaluable in helping us shape our policies and strategies and also in where we focus our lobbying efforts locally and nationally.”