The latest Spark meeting brought together business leaders from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) to shape a more connected, forward-thinking local economy.
Key Themes:
1. Stronger Collaboration Across BCP
Local businesses are often thriving in isolation. Spark aims to break down silos by creating shared spaces, physical and digital, for collaboration and vision-building.
2. Tackling BCP’s Reputation Problem
Negative media coverage continues to harm the region’s image. There’s a call for proactive storytelling through social media, local champions and partnerships with PR agencies to shift the narrative.
3. Smarter Use of Resources
With traditional local funding options limited, the group discussed unlocking national and European grants, using social media for low-cost promotion, and leveraging university data and talent.
4. Boosting Engagement and Identity
From repurposing empty shops for pop-ups to marketing Bournemouth as a digital nomad hub, there’s a focus on strengthening place identity and supporting grassroots initiatives.
5. Data and Digital Innovation
Data-driven planning and digital infrastructure were highlighted as untapped assets. The group supports creating a shared data dashboard and promoting Bournemouth’s 5G network and remote-work appeal.
6. Forward Action
Smaller working groups will now drive progress on funding, branding, communication, events and start-up support, all under a shared Spark mission.
Download the Full Meeting Summary
Get the complete details from the 5 March meeting, including all action points and next steps:
