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28 Aug 07Minister Sees Poole's Regeneration
Minister for the South West, Ben Bradshaw MP 
saw the progress being made on regeneration projects in Poole during a visit to the town.
Mr Bradshaw met Leader of the Council, Cllr Brian Leverett, John McBride, Chief Executive of Borough of Poole and Jim Bright, Strategic Director, Borough of Poole to learn more about the regeneration of Poole and the council's vision to revitalise the town centre.
The Minister was given a tour of redevelopment projects in the town and shown ambitious regeneration plans which will continue the transformation of Poole in the future.
Mr Bradshaw visited the site of the new Asda and Linden Homes' Aqua development at Holes Bay. He was given an overview of the regeneration area, including the site for the proposed Twin Sails Bridge and the redevelopment of the former Hamworthy power station.
Cllr Brian Leverett, Leader of the Council, said: "We were delighted that the Minister chose to come to Poole and welcomed the opportunity to explain to him the challenges that face the town and its regeneration. We hope that this will result in further Government help to provide the affordable housing that the town desperately needs."
The Leader and Chief Executive of Bournemouth Borough Council and the Chief Executive of Dorset County Council joined members and officers of Borough of Poole to brief the Minister on the partnership work being undertaken to address important issues facing South East Dorset.
It is hoped that a new economic development partnership will be launched shortly to deal with the issues facing the South East Dorset conurbation, such as improving the road network in the area.
Cllr Stephen Macloughlin, Leader of Bournemouth Borough Council, said: "We look forward to working with Poole and Dorset on issues of mutual interest, particularly planning and transport issues. In order to be successful and for funding to be provided for these projects we need the support of Government."
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