A POOLE councillor is backing plans for the creation of a new Stour Valley Park, which would stretch from Hengistbury Head to Kingston Lacy.

Cllr John Rampton, portfolio holder for environment, is supporting the early stages project, which could see a new Lour Stour Trail for walkers and cyclists, as well as possibilities for bike hire, angling, horse-riding and signposted points of interest.

The project would also aim to uncover and protect historical and archaeological sites, restore lost habitats and even reintroduce species and improve water quality.

A group of partner organisations have been working together to develop the concept including Bournemouth, Poole, and Christchurch and East Dorset councils, as well as the county council, the Environment Agency, and other local wildlife organisations. Cllr Rampton has given officers the go-ahead to develop the Stour Valley Park concept more fully.

“It’s a very exciting prospect but very, very early stages,” he said.

“There’s a great possibility for protecting and enhancing the area, as well as promoting health and wellbeing.

“We have committed to it and would like to see it go forward. We will see how things progress.”

In a report to Cllr Rampton, head of environment Ian Poultney said the proposed park “could provide multiple benefits for Poole’s residents and environment.”

“The Stour Valley Park concept has recently been endorsed through the Poole Local Plan 2017, due to be examined in February 2018. The park concept is seen as integral to the development of Poole.”

A ‘working project team’ is currently seeking political support from all the local authorities involved with the proposals.

No financial commitment is being sought at this stage, and the team is planning to identify and hold discussions with key landowners to seek their support.

“This park would not require formal designation but would bring partners together to apply existing policies and objectives in a way that offers the biggest benefits for people and wildlife,” Mr Poultney said.