A new Citizens’ Panel has launched in Bournemouth town centre, bringing together 50 residents to help shape the future of the area.
The panel met for the first time on Saturday 21 June inside Bobby’s on the Square.
Participants, aged 13 and above, were randomly selected from nearly 250 applicants, using data from the Office for National Statistics to reflect the town’s full range of backgrounds and experiences.
The initiative is a collaboration between Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale and BCP Council Leader Councillor Millie Earl. It aims to place local people at the heart of decisions about how the town centre develops.
The first session was led by Richard Eastham from Feria Urbanism and focused on understanding the current condition of Bournemouth town centre. Panellists used maps to explore challenges and opportunities and discussed ideas ranging from short-term improvements to long-term projects, including how to give the town a stronger identity.
Jessica Toale said the panel was created in response to residents who feel their voices are not heard and want to take part in shaping change. Councillor Earl praised the group’s energy and their shared aim to make a difference.
The panel will meet again in July.