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Body found by officers searching for missing man Oliver Roberts

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Officers searching for missing man Oliver Roberts in Bournemouth have very sadly found a body.

Oliver, aged 29, was reported missing having last been seen on the morning of Saturday 27 January 2024 and was believed to be in the Bournemouth area.

At around 2.40pm on Sunday 28 January 2024 officers located a body in the Middle Chine area of Westbourne.

While the body has not yet been formally identified, it is believed to be Oliver and his family has been informed.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and HM Coroner has been notified.

Chief Inspector Danny Tamblyn, of Dorset Police, said: “Our thoughts are very much with the family and loved ones of Oliver Roberts at this extremely difficult time.

“I would like to thank all those involved in the search efforts to locate Oliver, including volunteers from Dorset Search and Rescue (DorSAR).”

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AI06hNewsPoole

Sophie Ellis-Bextor to headline first-over Poole Pride event at Lighthouse

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Sophie Ellis-Bextor is returning to the area this year to headline the first ever Poole Pride on Saturday 8 June.

The singer’s 2001 hit Murder on the Dancefloor is enjoying the limelight once again after its use in the movie Saltburn.

Sophie, who last visited Poole in 2022 on her Kitchen Disco Tour, will be back at Lighthouse to headline a flat floor show before giving way to DJs as the Concert Hall hosts a late-night after-party.

She’s also scheduled to play at the BIC in December this year.

“We’re thrilled that Sophie will headline Poole’s first ever Pride this summer – she’s the perfect artist to top the bill on a day that is all about inclusivity,” says Tim Colegate, Head of Programming at Lighthouse.

“We want to create an amazing day, an event that all the people of Poole can be proud of. Poole Pride will be a safe space for everyone where people can be themselves, come as they are, and crucially, enjoy some first-class entertainment – something that Lighthouse is very used to.”

Planned in consultation with a community steering group that includes members of the LGBTQ+ community, Poole Pride will include performances and activities throughout Lighthouse, including the outdoor theatre.

A Queer film festival will run in the week leading up to Pride as well as a month-long exhibition, presented in partnership with AUB, honouring influential gay activist John Chesterman who was closely involved in the formation of the Gay Liberation Front in 1970 and whose ideas underpin the modern Pride movement.

“We’re also working on a family-friendly daytime programme with performances, talks, educational sessions and signposting to LGBTQ+ support charities and groups, and we’re thankful for the support of Bourne Free, Bournemouth’s annual pride festival, to pull this off.” adds Tim.

“Poole is a major conurbation and, as a much-cherished part of life in the town, Lighthouse is perfectly placed to host its first ever Pride event… and we’re going all out to make it a day we’ll never forget!”

Tickets go on pre-sale to pre-sale to Lighthouse Friends only today (Friday 26 January) at noon and on general sale from 10am on Thursday 1 February via the Lighthouse website.

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AI06hBournemouthNews

Police confirm Meyrick Road incident involved knife and glass bottle

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Three people including a 17-year-old girl were arrested during an incident involving a knife and a glass bottle in Bournemouth on Thursday afternoon.

Six young people were involved in the disturbance, first reported to Police just before 3pm.

Cordons were in place for the rest of the day around Meyrick Road and Christchurch Road whilst investigation work was carried out.

Ten medical crews including three air ambulances were dispatched to the scene, along with multiple police vehicles.

A 24-year-old man from Bournemouth and a 25-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent. They were taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

A 17-year-old girl from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of assault and wounding with intent.

Two male teenagers and a man aged in his 20s sustained minor injuries during the incident and were also taken to hospital for treatment.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Bell, of BCP CID, said: “From our early enquiries, we believe this incident involved two groups of young people who were known to each other and there was no wider threat to others in the area.

“Officers arrived on the scene and the situation was quickly contained, allowing treatment to be given to those who had sustained injuries and fast-time enquiries to be conducted.

“It is reported that a knife and a glass bottle were used in the incident and thankfully, there were no serious injuries.

“We understand that this was a busy time of day near to the college and there would have been a number of students and members of the public who witnessed what happened.

“I would ask anyone with information or footage in relation to this incident to please contact Dorset Police.

“A policing presence will remain in the vicinity as further enquiries are taking place. Our neighbourhood policing teams will be carrying out high-visibility reassurance patrols in the area and can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”

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AI06hBournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

BCP Council plans to increase Council Tax by five per cent for the second year running

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

BCP Council is proposing to increase the Council Tax for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole residents by five per cent again this year.

The Council says it has produced a budget for the next four years that protects the most vulnerable and provides a sound, stable financial future.

£309m is spent each year delivering public services to more than 400,000 residents, with around two thirds of this money spent providing services for when people need support most.

The 4.99% increase is made up of 2.99% for the basic Council Tax and 2% for the social care precept.

Today’s budget identifies £41m of further savings, efficiencies, and additional income generation proposals.

BCP Council Leader Vikki Slade, said: “As a responsible council, we have a legal obligation to balance our budget and provide essential services to support the most vulnerable in our society, keep our communities clean and safe, and maintain core infrastructure.

“Making the necessary savings to achieve this balanced budget has required us to make some very difficult and painful choices. Our budget approach has been focused on delivering value for money for residents and maintaining the council’s financial health and ongoing sustainability. The budget recognises that the Council has previously been living beyond its means.

“BCP Council is facing acute pressures caused by years of austerity, recent high inflation and the exceptional demand faced by all local authorities, and other public services, at this time. We have not shirked from making the tough decisions you see outlined in these plans and we have acted responsibly to balance the budget in a sustainable way over 4 years.

“These proposals include reducing statutory services in adult and children’s social care, reducing early help and preventative services, cutting our Community Safety Accredited Officers, changing the way we support the Bournemouth Air Festival, reducing grass cutting and finding ways to reduce the costs of our library services.

“We know how tough these proposals will be for our residents to hear but we have no alternative. We must deliver a budget that puts the council on a sustainable financial footing and avoids serious government interventions that we have seen in other parts of the country.”

To date the Council has already delivered £82 million in savings, efficiencies, additional income and service adjustments since bringing three councils into one authority. Some of these savings have come from the council’s transformation programme which has been working to redesign services to make them more efficient, and in turn, more cost effective to run, but other savings have come from reductions in key services as well.

The report and full appendices are available here.

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AI06hBournemouthNews

Bournemouth company fined £100,000 for making unsolicited marketing calls

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A Bournemouth company has been fined £100,000 for making over half a million unsolicited marketing calls to people who had registered with the Telephone Preference Service.

Skean Homes Ltd, which claimed to help improve energy efficiency and reduce household bills, instigated the calls between March and May 2022 which resulted in 31 complaints.

After an investigation by the Information Commissioner’s Office, Skean Homes refused to take responsibility for the unlawful marketing calls, blaming a technical error and misunderstandings.

It is against the law for organisations to make marketing calls to anyone signed up with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and Corporate Telephone Preference Service (CTPS), which operate a “do not call” register, unless the individual or business has explicitly consented to receive these calls.

Andy Curry, ICO Head of Investigations, said: “People register with the TPS for a clear reason: to stop unwanted marketing contact and protect their privacy. Both these companies have not only broken the law by failing to check the ‘do not call’ register, but also caused distress and disruption to those they bombarded with unwanted and unlawful calls.

“These fines should send a clear message that companies cannot use third parties or multiple phone numbers to avoid detection and taking responsibility for illegal calls. We will take decisive action to ensure the public are protected from nuisance marketing.”

In addition to the fines, the ICO has also issued an Enforcement Notice to both companies, ordering them to stop calling people registered with the TPS, or who had previously objected to such calls.

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AI06hBournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

Household Support Fund opens for applications from local residents

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Applications are now open for the Household Support Fund to help residents tackle the rise in the cost of living this winter.

The fund, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions, will be given out by Citizens Advice BCP on behalf of the council to provide short-term financial support to help local low-income households struggling with food and energy bills.

The application window closes at 5pm on Friday 9th February 2024 – visit this link to apply.

Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities said: “The effects of the cost-of-living pressures is being felt by an increasing amount of our residents, having an impact on their lives.

“The pressures are particularly significant during the winter months, with those already struggling financially being most affected.

“I would encourage eligible residents to apply for the Household Support Fund, which will help you with your bills and access to food, especially if this is the first time you are applying.”

In the BCP area, nearly 50% of households earn less than £30,000 per year, and around 30% of households are classified as being fuel poor.

Citizen’s Advice BCP provides free, confidential support and advice to help residents who are struggling financially. They can help with debt advice and money management and would encourage anyone that is struggling to get in touch with them to find out more. This help is available to anyone living and working in the BCP area.

BCP Council is working with a wide range of community partners including Welcome Spaces, Ridgewater Energy and Access to Food to help residents keep warm, get energy saving advice and access community food.

Residents can also access cost-of-living information online and at local libraries.

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AI06hDorsetNews

Arrests increase in latest Christmas drink and drug drive campaign in Dorset

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Dorset Police is hailing its Christmas drink and drug drive campaign a success after more than 100 arrests were made in December.

The campaign encouraged people to plan appropriate ways to get home from Christmas parties rather than getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence.

Dorset Police arrested 113 people in connection with 127 suspected offences during the month, compared with 85 arrests during the same period in 2022.

Of the 113 arrests, 71 people were arrested on suspicion of drink driving; 53 people on suspicion of drug driving and 3 further arrests were made for failing to provide a sample for analysis.

Inspector Craig Tatton, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “During December, we increased operational activity in an attempt to catch drink and drug drivers who put other roads users at risk.

“While it is disappointing to see an increase in the number of suspected drink and drug drive related offences, I am pleased that our increased efforts to tackle those drivers has resulted in so many arrests and potential convictions.

“Drink and drug driving is one of the main causes of deaths and serious injuries on roads in Dorset and the pain this causes to victims’ families is devastating, but entirely preventable.

“As in previous years, I would like to thank members of the public who called us to report a drink or drug driver. This intelligence is really important and helps us to keep our roads safe.

“I would also like to thank the venues that supported our ‘Lift Legend’ campaign, by rewarding designated drivers with free drinks as a ‘thank you’ for getting their friends and family members home safely; as well as everyone who volunteered to be the designated driver or who took our advice and planned their journey home.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to see the increased operational activity as part of the Christmas drink and drug drive operation has yielded a positive result with 113 people arrested during the campaign. Drink and drug driving kills, and while the vast majority of road users are responsible, it is important that those who choose to take the risk and get behind the wheel while under the influence are dealt with robustly.

“I want to be clear, there is no excuse for driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs and, as demonstrated in my Police and Crime Plan, I am in full support of officers who are relentless in their work to target those who make this dangerous choice, putting themselves and others at risk.”

If you have information relating to someone who regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please call 101 or fill in an intelligence form on dorset.police.uk.

Dorset Police

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AI06hBournemouthNews

Bournemouth’s Kings Park Plant Nursery to close permanently

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

The Kings Park Plant Nursery in Bournemouth is to close permanently, BCP Council has announced.

There’ll be a short four-day sale in the coming months but the nursery will not reopen in the Spring as previously planned.

A message on social media from the team at Kings Park says they have made the difficult decision with a heavy heart, and thank all of their loyal customers for their support through the years.

Cllr Millie Earl, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities says: “Councils across the country are facing an unprecedented challenge. Soaring inflation has driven up costs and many councils are facing an increase in demand for core services, such as social care, education and highways.

“BCP Council share these challenges as it works to close a £50 million funding gap. We have been clear that difficult decisions will need to be made and we are taking a responsible approach rather than deferring tough choices to future years.

“One of these difficult decisions is to close Kings Park Plant Nursery, it will not reopen in Spring 2024. This will save £85,000 in the 2024/25 financial year.

“We are aware that it will impact our dedicated staff and volunteers, and we will be supporting them throughout this process. Our aim now is to look at how we can best use this space to benefit the community going forward.

“I realise this will also come as a disappointment to loyal customers and I want to thank anyone who has ever visited and purchased items from Kings Park Plant Nursery.

“Kings Park Plant Nursery will open for a short period of time in the coming months, and we hope customers will come and purchase the remaining stock from the plant nursery. This will also enable any customers with gift vouchers to spend them during this time. We will make everyone aware of these dates once they have been decided. 

“We have always said we would be open and transparent and the decision to close Kings Park Plant Nursery has been a difficult one and one that hasn’t been made lightly.”

The short 4-day sale will take place from Wednesday 14 – Saturday 17 February 2024, 10am-4pm.

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AI06hBournemouthNews

Small chance of sleet forecast for Bournemouth town centre

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Bournemouth might have a small covering of sleet this afternoon according to the Met Office.

And whilst other areas of the country could be in for heavy snowfall, no heavy snow weather warnings are in place for this area.

Looking at the forecast at midday on Monday, there’s a less than 50 per cent chance of sleet between 2pm and 6pm.

Meanwhile, as the temperate drops, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated by BCP Council.

The Council’s & St Mungos’ Outreach Teams will be doing extra shifts throughout SWEP, finding anyone who is sleeping rough and encouraging them to take up the offer of emergency accommodation.

Wrap up warm and stay safe should things change.

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AI06hNews

Local flooding and collisions causing issues disruption

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Heavy rain caused problems on the roads and public transport on Thursday afternoon with numerous floods and accidents reported.

Castle Lane East was closed following a three-car collision near the Tesco / Golf Club junction, and was later partially blocked causing delays.

The A31 towards Ringwood was congested due to an accident on the westbound carriageway.

Flooding was reported across the conurbation including at Sandbanks, Ferndown and Mudeford, with fallen trees also causing issues.

Send your photos and reports of any incidents near you to news@bournemouthone.com.

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AI06hBournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

Separate eastern and western planning committees planned for BCP Council

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Proposals to change the planning committee structure within Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are being introduced ahead of the next full council meeting.

The new areas – Western BCP and an Eastern BCP – would allow more localised planning decisions and include 11 members for each committee.

The establishment of a Transport Advisory Group, which advises on traffic regulation orders and other transport-related matters, is also on the agenda at the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council meeting on Tuesday 9 January.

These recommendations follow discussions from the Constitution Review Working Group and the subsequent Audit and Governance Committee at the end of November 2023.  

If approved, these proposals would change the council’s constitution, which sets out the rules and procedures which explain how council business is carried out and how decisions are made. 

Cllr Vikki Slade, Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places said: “We made a promise to be an open, transparent and accountable Council and the proposed increase in member and public participation is evidence of that commitment in action.

“Reviewing the planning committee structure was part of that promise. The creation of a Western BCP and an Eastern BCP Planning Committee would allow for a more localised decision-making process with both committees meeting regularly to ensure consistency in the decisions being made. 

“By introducing two committees we will encourage more community involvement and representation, with residents and ward councillors able to attend meetings that may have an impact on the area in which they live.

The Constitution Review Working Group also recommended the creation of a Transportation Advisory Group (TAG) which would deliver greater public engagement around Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO). 

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AI06hNewsPoole

Gate closure trial planned aiming to reducing traffic in Poole Park

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A trial gate closure to cars at Poole Park will start this month along with a public consultation on it being permanent.

From Wednesday 17 January 2024 the gate at the Whitecliff Road and Twemlow Avenue entrance and exit point of the park will be closed 24 hours a day to prevent motor vehicles entering or exiting.

This is an extension to the current closure in place Monday to Saturday, from 7.30-10am.

Whilst this trial gate closure is in place, the council will launch a four-week public consultation; seeking the views of local residents, businesses and visitors to the park on whether to make the closure permanent.

It follows a recent Experimental Traffic Regulation Order to close Keyhole Bridge in Whitecliff Road which remains open.

Cllr Andy Hadley, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy said: “Trialling a closure of this entrance to the park alongside an online public consultation gives our residents the opportunity to comment, having seen how these proposed measures affects them and others.

“Reducing traffic in Poole Park could benefit both park users and the special wildlife who inhabit the park. The park also plays an important role in the council’s active travel network and this proposal aligns with our commitment to promote active and sustainable travel, and support everyone to live active and healthy lives.

“I would encourage people who do use the park to experience these changes before the middle of February and see for themselves the difference this trial closure may make to their daily lives.

“We are keen to consider the views of everyone who uses Poole Park, and once the consultation has closed all responses will be reviewed and considered ahead of a decision being made on a permanent closure.”

The other vehicle access and exit points, and parking (including disabled parking) in the park are not affected by this proposal. 

The consultation will be open until midnight on Tuesday 13 February 2024 and the survey goes live on Wednesday 17 January on the council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website.

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AI06hBournemouth

Bournemouth Airport to get £5m worth of improvements and increase destinations

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Bournemouth Airport says it expects to handle more than one million passengers this year as Ryanair confirms its 19th destination from the town.

And to cater for the expected passenger growth, airport owners Regional and City Airports is investing more than £5m in new facilities, equipment, staff and training.

Ryanair has confirmed it will start twice weekly flights to the beach destination of Agadir in Morrocco from 1st April.

And tour operator TUI has already announced it will add a second aircraft at Bournemouth in 2024 with an extra 60,000 seats available, a 33% increase on its 2023 schedule. TUI has 14 destinations from Bournemouth with increased frequency planned on many routes next year.

Steve Gill, managing director of Bournemouth Airport, said: “We’ve embarked on a major investment programme to cater for the anticipated growth in passenger numbers. Before the pandemic we saw 800,000 passengers. Having exceeded that this year, we are confident of seeing more than one million in 2024.

“That’s a tremendous achievement and reflects the great range of destinations available from Bournemouth Airport and our commitment to providing the best possible experience for passengers.

“While our investment programme continues, we thank passengers for their patience and aim to complete the majority of work during the quieter winter months.”

In the coming months passengers will notice several improvements in the terminal as part of the £5 million investment programme. These include an upgraded security search area with new scanning equipment to relax the restriction on liquids and the need to take electronics out of bags, when the works are complete.

There will be a new airport information desk, improved baggage screening, an extra baggage retrieval area in the Arrivals terminal, more Border Force desks in Arrivals and improved queuing systems for passenger handling in both Departures and Arrivals.

Bournemouth Airport now has 36 destinations on offer. In 2023 it was ranked one of the top three airports in the UK for customer service, and it has won plaudits for the quality of service provided to disabled and less mobile passengers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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