HOLLYWOOD heart-throb Johnny Depp could be heading for Bournemouth - but not everyone's planning to roll out the welcome mat.

The news that the two-times Oscar nominee could play the part of a drug addict in Boscombe has been met with alarm from one councillor.

Conservative Cllr Barry Goldbart is concerned the film Addict could effectively undo the ongoing efforts to regenerate Boscombe.

And he is now urging the council to refuse any request for help in making the film.

As reported in the Daily Echo earlier this month, Depp, 41, is said to be seriously considering starring in a film based on the best-selling autobiography of Stephen Smith.

The book tells the story of Stephen's 20-year amphetamine addiction, during which time he went from living among London high rollers to sleeping rough on the streets of Boscombe.

He spent 10 months in 1978 and 1979 living rough in Boscombe before kicking his addiction.

Cllr Goldbart said he had read part of the book, which has sold 1.2 million copies, and believes Boscombe's reputation would suffer as a result of the film.

"I'm all for film stars coming here and I like Johnny Depp but I just feel the whole message of that book can only drag the area down," he said.

"What concerns me most is that we as a council have worked hard to improve the standard of life for the residents of Boscombe .

"Highlighting these unfortunate events can only drag down the improving reputation for that part of Bournemouth."

First published: May 20