THE Sheridan IMAX should be replaced with an ice rink - that's the overwhelming message from Daily Echo readers.

The Echo got an amazing response after it appealed for suggestions on what the IMAX should be replaced with and revealed that it may become a casino.

Operator Sheridan was shown the door by landlord Nilgos after months of the IMAX screen remaining dark.

Cllr Ron Whittaker represented the majority of views rang in or emailed by the readers that the building should become an ice rink.

Cllr Whittaker told the Echo he has suggested previously to Sheridan that it convert the building into an ice rink and described it as "desperately needed" in Bournemouth.

Echoing many others views reader Max Forrester-Addie said: "Reinstate the ice rink which is still there behind one of the existing cinemas.

"The ice rink can be used for leisure as well as shows and sport. Bournemouth could then have a local ice hockey team."

Other suggestions from readers included using the site for beach volleyball, as an arts centre, a multiplex cinema or swimming pool.

Cllr Ben Grower, leader of the Labour Group at Bournemouth Borough Council, joked: "One idea would be to have wax figures of all the Liberal Democrats who put it there in the first place and let the public throw whatever they like at them.

"I know this would be a poor substitute for having the real people there."

Reader Jason Lawford asked: "Could the proposed new facilities or at least some of them that are earmarked for the Winter Gardens site be located within the building - a theatre, modern gallery, visitor centre?

"This could then free up space on the Winter Gardens site for a fun sports complex of swimming pool and climbing wall."

Reader Michael Fudge suggested that a beach volleyball centre be created within the building with it being an "up and coming sport".

But reader Stephen Heath's message to the council was direct but simple: "Bulldoze it".

His views were echoed by Sam Chapman, who wants the building to be demolished to "give us back the wonderful sea view".

Andrew Douglas was the only one to suggest that the building should become "another IMAX".

Cllr Phil Stanley-Watts said he is gathering signatures on a petition to get more family facilities on Bournemouth seafront, including the IMAX building.

He added: "There's a probability of it being turned into a casino and that wouldn't be an ideal situation. It would be better if the building had family facilities."

First published: October 21