BOSSES of Bournemouth's IMAX plan to ask architects to look at the possibility of transforming the building into an indoor swimming pool.

The idea of reducing the height of the controversial Waterfront complex and turning it into a pool is being championed by Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood.

But NILGOSC, the long-term leaseholder of the site, has yet to decide what to do with the building and has also held top-level discussions with Bournemouth council.

The council wants to keep the site for a "high-quality family attraction" and has suggested re-opening it as an IMAX or large-screen cinema.

Failing that, the council has raised the possibility of turning it into a water park, ice rink, high-tech attraction, extreme sports centre or indoor play space.

Both Mr Ellwood and the council oppose the idea of turning the IMAX building into a casino.

Jim Burgess, of NILGOSC, now plans to instruct architects to look at whether the cinema could be converted into a pool. If it is a feasible option, he will meet with Mr Ellwood again in the New Year to discuss the cost implications.

Mr Ellwood said: "I took the opportunity to stress many residents' concerns that the building is too obtrusive for such a location and passed on the view that many would like to see the IMAX replaced with a wet weather facility such as an indoor swimming pool.

"I fully support these views. While expansion of the BIC will help attract conferences, I was sad to see the BIC pool go as a consequence.

"If we are to remain an attractive family resort, Bournemouth must provide family facilities for when the sun is not shining.

"Situated in a prime site, the IMAX building could easily be altered to house an indoor pool."

But Cllr Rob Copeland, cabinet member for environment and leisure, said personal views on what should be done with the IMAX were unimportant.

"Our view is that we want to see a quality family attraction in there. At the end of the day, getting the building back in use as soon as possible is what is best for Bournemouth.

"The council wants to be helpful and get the site back up and running so we presented to Mr Burgess a number of potential alternative uses.

"The quickest and simplest option would be to find another cinema operator but if that is not possible, we want to see a quality family attraction in there."

First published: November 1