Plans for the transformation of an "unpopular" waterfront site in Bournemouth, Dorset, have taken a step forward after the local authority agreed a timetable for the scheme.

A range of ideas for the redevelopment of the town's IMAX building are set to be considered by Bournemouth Borough Council (BBC) after it completed the acquisition of the property earlier this month. Proposals put forward by members of the public - including a butterfly farm, a tropical water park and an art gallery - will be explored by a 'Task and Finish' group of councillors before a shortlist of options is produced in early March.

Extreme sports use, restaurants, an open-air performance area and an aerial ride are also among suggestions already received by BBC, although a public consultation into the shortlist is expected to be held by the end of April. BBC's cabinet is expected to decide on a preferred option for the scheme by the end of June to transform the IMAX site, which is to be demolished as part of the proposals.

Stephen MacLoughlin, BBC leader and chair of the 'Task and Finish' group, said: "The council needs a firm plan for what will go on the site before we can apply for a Compulsory Purchase Order, so our timetable is very tight. Overwhelmingly, the public want sea views and the site put to good use. "We have already said that we will do this and our plans are to enable the provision of viable, all-weather attractions on the site, that residents and visitors would value and use."

MacLoughlin added that work is unlikely to start on site before summer 2011 due to necessary legal procedures and design processes.