Pier Approach is the principal access point for the majority of the 7 million annual visitors to the seafront and one of the Bournemouth’s principal public spaces. Knights Brown was chosen for the works because of our extensive local knowledge and experience.

Our contract included ‘virtually’ connecting the Bourne Stream to the sea over Pier Approach, using white cement and concrete aggregate finishes embedded with blue glass to represent a flowing estuary right down to the beach. This was complemented by the construction of a series of water features and extensive landscaping works in keeping with the geology and history of the area.

Landscaping works incorporated 1,200m² of high quality granite paving. Two eye-catching leaf-shaped, stainless steel structures, each weighing 11.5 tonnes, were erected to accommodate a tourist information centre and kiosk, and provide shelter for public use and informal events.

The newly created area is vibrant and engaging for visitors throughout the day and into the night with the installation of low energy lighting to create an inviting atmosphere with colourful and interactive displays.