ARTS University Bournemouth (AUB) wants to build an ‘innovation studio’ as a base for small businesses in the digital and creative industries.

But the idea has attracted objections from some neighbours, who say it would be an “eyesore” and out of keeping with its surroundings.

AUB has submitted detailed plans for the facility on its Wallisdown campus after winning funding from Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The studio would be a base for small business start-ups, many of which would be the work of AUB’s graduates. They would be advised by leading experts at the university and from wider industry.

AUB says the studio would encourage employability and act as a catalyst for growth.

It has commissioned CRAB Studio architects, which designed the award-winning Drawing Studio on campus.

The building would be two-and-a-half storeys tall and fit alongside the existing workshop building and University House.

AUB vice-chancellor Professor Stuart Bartholomew said: “At AUB, we take great pride in the innovative and head-turning architecture that makes up our campus.

“We are delighted to be expanding upon our existing specialist resources to provide a creatively inspirational space for local businesses to experiment, innovate, be curious and push boundaries.”

Gordon Page, chair of Dorset LEP, said: “The Innovation Studio will provide a much needed space for new businesses and graduate start-ups.

“Furthermore, creative and digital industries are a priority sector for Dorset LEP and this building will contribute to the successful growth of this sector in the region.”

However, some residents have lodged objections with the Borough of Poole, which will decide the application.

Tony Burton said the scheme would be “ugly, garish and totally out of place so close to a residential area”.

He added: “Most of the residents maintain their properties and gardens in a way that the whole neighbourhood can benefit and we would expect the AUB to operate in a similar considerate manner.”

Andrew Kenny wrote: “I object to the ceaseless expansion of the Arts Institute, the destruction of this beautiful open green space, and the inevitable impact on local residents.”

Joy Goodrum wrote: “It appears from the plan that there is no proposal to camouflage the building with shrubs or trees and therefore every day whilst emerging from my address I would be confronted with this eyesore.”