Claire Starmer has been appointed as the independent chair of the Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor neighbourhood board, which will oversee a £20 million government investment to improve the area over the next decade.
The board, part of the Pride in Place programme, will be responsible for deciding how the funding is allocated to reflect the needs and priorities of local residents.
Claire Starmer, who has lived in Turlin Moor for nearly thirty years, said it is a privilege to chair the board and described it as a valuable opportunity for local people to help shape the future of their community.
She will work closely with residents, partner organisations, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, and the local MP to ensure decisions are rooted in community needs.
Local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan said Claire Starmer is committed to ensuring residents decide what happens with the funding.
Councillor Millie Earl, leader of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, congratulated both Claire Starmer and vice-chair Avril Atkins on their appointments.
Interviews for the remaining board members will take place throughout August, with the board set to spend six months gathering input from residents once fully formed.
