SoBo Beach future hangs in balance as BCP considers new operator for site
Councillors are set to decide the future of the popular SoBo Beach café and bar on Southbourne Promenade
The future of popular Southbourne seafront venue SoBo Beach is set to be considered by BCP councillors, as the council prepares to decide who will take over the site when its existing lease expires.
A section of land on Southbourne Promenade occupied by the café and bar is currently leased to an operator until October 31st.
BCP Council has since marketed the site as part of a competitive procurement process to secure a new operator from December 1st.
Five expressions of interest were received, with three bidders progressing to the interview and presentation stage.
A cabinet report says detailed assessments were carried out on the financial, operational and strategic merits of the submissions. It recommends that negotiations proceed with a preferred, but unnamed, operator.
The council says its preferred bidder offers the highest guaranteed and projected rental income, alongside strong covenant strength, significant hospitality experience and an established local presence.
The proposal is also said to include high-quality design aspirations and the greatest potential to enhance the visitor offer along Bournemouth’s seafront.
The focus on guaranteed and projected rent reflects the commercial importance of the council-owned site, with the authority seeking to secure a long-term return while maintaining the seafront’s appeal to visitors and residents.
Because of the high value of the lease, the decision must be considered by BCP Council’s cabinet rather than being dealt with through a routine operational process.
Cllr Richard Herrett said the council had received a number of “exciting proposals” for the Southbourne promenade premises.
He said the procurement process had been opened to all interested operators under the Procurement Act 2023, creating what he described as a fair and competitive opportunity.
The bids, he added, contained “creative, vibrant and innovative visions” that could create jobs, attract investment and support the wider economy.
“There is a real sense of opportunity and I know residents will be keen to hear more about what the future could hold,” Herrett said.
BCP’s cabinet is due to consider the proposal at its meeting on September 30th.