PLANS to “transform” the Debenhams building in the centre of Bournemouth have drawn an objection from police.

The new owners of the site submitted proposals for a rooftop bar and refit of the department store at the end of last year, saying the changes would “breathe new life” into it.

But the process has had an early setback with Dorset Police crime prevention adviser John Green raising concerns about “inadequate” information on the scheme.

Sandstone Ltd and Verve Properties Ltd, which also own The Avenue shopping centre nearby, bought the building for £8.5 million in 2019.

And last year they submitted their planning application seeking to revitalise the “neglected” Debenhams store.

They said the scheme was an “initial” set of proposals, including the creation of a rooftop terrace and internal and external improvements.

It also includes the removal of the more recently added canopy and the reinstatement of the name of previous occupant, Bobby & Co.

The application is being considered by BCP Council planning officers.

But concerns about a lack of detail – and potential issues a bar would create – have prompted an objection from Dorset Police.

Mr Green said the building was at the centre of an area it regards as a “violent crime hotspot”.

“I have worked Bournemouth long enough to remember the quite major problems that were caused when one level of this site was operating as a nightclub,” he said.

“As well as the alcohol licensing issues, there were also some quite fundamental access and safety problems.

“All the plans shows us are what is there already, there is no suggestion of what might be.

“Quite simply the police feel there is inadequate information available to make an informed decision on what is proposed at this location.”

He said “some quite specific detail” about the plans for the bar would be required before it is considered whether the objection is withdrawn.