MEETINGS on the move could be the way forward for the productivity of Bournemouth’s businesses.

Staff at Bournemouth 2026 have started holding their meetings outside while walking and say it helps them to think clearly and stay fit.

The team, tasked with co-ordinating solutions for social and economic problems in the town, hopes other local workers will follow suit.

Debbie Clifton, Development Manager at 2026, said: “We’ve been sharing an office with one of our partners ‘Healthlink’ and the importance of keeping fit is something we hear from them a lot.

“With autumn arriving and the team having to rely more on artificial light in the office we were starting to feel a little sluggish so we started bringing our trainers in. Now, for our regular meetings, we work while we walk.

“Being out in the fresh air and exercising certainly helps us to think more clearly and has helped generate some good ideas. We’re lucky to work at the Littledown Centre where there’s plenty of quiet green space.”

Healthlink, which organises the walks, is interested in hearing from other businesses interested in holding meetings on the move. Call Layne Hammerston on 01202 436880 to find out more.

Bournemouth 2026 was established in 2000 and, following public consultation, formed a vision for the future of the conurbation. It monitors the social, economic and environmental welfare of the town and unites 190 local voluntary, public and private organisations to help solve areas of concern.

Its core aims include ensuring Bournemouth’s economy is strong, its residents healthy and its environment attractive.