Anger as new town councils approved

Opposition councillors have condemned the decision to approve new town councils in Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone, calling the move undemocratic, costly, and out of touch with residents.

The decision was made after a heated four-hour debate during a full Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council meeting on 14 October, which saw councillors trade tense exchanges and accusations across party lines.

Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes said more councillors, meetings and taxes “aren’t the answer to our problems”, while Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale said it was “disappointing” that the council had pressed ahead despite petitions, objections and a narrow vote.

Councillor Patrick Canavan, Leader of the Labour Group, said the administration had “ignored the public, local councillors and MPs” and accused the Liberal Democrats of putting “ideology ahead of residents’ wishes”.

Conservative Group Leader Councillor John Beesley described the decision as “predetermined”, warning that the new town councils would mean “more bureaucracy and more costs for hard-pressed taxpayers”.

Councillor Judes Butt of the Poole Engage Group said the move was “an assault on democracy”, while Green Group Leader Councillor Chris Rigby said that although his group opposed the plan, they would now focus on making sure the new councils deliver value for money.

Council Leader Councillor Millie Earl defended the decision, saying it would “put power back into the hands of local people” and help build pride and wellbeing across the area.

The new councils for Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone will now begin the process of being formally established.