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Things to do around Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole this half term

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Winter wildlife, creative crafts and tantalising trails are just some of the things taking place across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole this February half-term.

And BCP Council has provided more ideas on what to do outdoors with the kids from Rock Reef on the Pier to a cruise around Brownsea Island or a walk on Hengistbury Head.

Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said: “There’s so much going on across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole during the February half term, you’re spoilt for choice.

“Half term activities across our three towns cater for a range of budgets, and we’re lucky to live in a beautiful part of the south coast with sandy beaches which everyone can enjoy for free, even in the colder months!

“I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy what’s on offer. Having fun doesn’t have to be costly, and I hope everyone has a great time during this week.”

Bournemouth

Immerse yourself in art at the Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum while the little ones take on an exciting trail through this historic house, unlocking hidden treasures along the way from 10-18 February.

Enjoy a stroll through the Lower Gardens, stopping at the Hedgehog Park Café to enjoy a warming hot chocolate, then tire everyone out with a visit to Rock Reef at the end of Bournemouth Pier, challenging family to see who can climb the highest.

Glide on the ice at the Cool Coast Ice Rink in the Bournemouth International Centre, although try to be more balanced than Bambi!

Kids can get creative at selected parks across Bournemouth and beyond throughout the week with the Parks Foundation. Make a mini bee home or create a nest bundle to hang in your garden for the birds.

Take a trip to the archaeologically renowned Hengistbury Head. Pop into their Visitor Centre for a little bit of history, then take a scenic walk over the headland and onto the renowned Mudeford Spit.

Christchurch

Families will love the half price admission to Highcliffe Castle on Valentines Day, where little ones can take part in an interactive stained glass activity, and fairy tale activities running from 11 – 15 February.

Stanpit Marsh Visitor Centre is running children’s wildlife crafting sessions on Monday 12 February from 10-11am and 11-12.30pm.

Book your children in for a day at the holiday club at 2Riversmeet Leisure Complex where they can enjoy a bumper day of activities that may involve trampolining, swimming, dodgeball, football and more, while you enjoy a more sedate day enjoying Christchurch Quay and one of the many eateries that Christchurch is renowned for.

A magical world of bubbles awaits you at the Red House Museum on 15 February, where you’ll learn bubble tricks, play games and have fun in this immersive workshop.

Poole

Visit Upton Country Park on 14 February and enjoy a winter wildlife adventure day with experts on hand to guide you, join in with minibeast hunting, bird counts, crafts and more. From 10-18 February, solve some riddles that will lead you to activities hidden around the park – the perfect day out with your four-legged friends!

Venture to Poole Park and challenge your family to a round of crazy golf, visit the adventure playground if you’ve got extra energy after, then enjoy a cooling ice cream from one of the eateries around the park – it’s never too cold for ice cream!

Hop on a City Cruises boat and enjoy breathtaking views of Brownsea Island, Sandbanks, Studland Bay and more as you cruise around the harbour, before enjoying a family meal at one of the many eateries positioned along Poole Quay and Old Town – or indulge in the English tradition of fish and chips wrapped in newspaper print as you bat away the hungry seagulls…

For more, visit BCP Council’s tourism webpages:

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Sunseeker International on crest of a wave after success at 2024 Motor Boat Awards

by Andy Diprose
written by Andy Diprose

Poole luxury yacht manufacturer Sunseeker International is celebrating another award.

Its Superhawk 55 was voted the best Sportscruiser over 45ft at the 2024 Motor Boat Awards.

The cruiser was praised for its design and performance.

Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International, said: “We are very proud of our Superhawk 55 which continues to impress at boat shows around the world.

“We are honoured to receive accolades such as this and remain committed to delivering exceptional yachts that capture the industry’s imagination.”

Hugo Andreae, Editor-in-Chief at Motor Boat & Yachting, said: “This boat blurs the boundaries between the stylish sporty dayboat and the luxurious four-person cruiser, without seeming to compromise on either front.”

The awards were officially announced at a gala dinner in Düsseldorf, Germany.

From its manufacturing base in Poole, Sunseeker employs around 2,000 people.

It produces about 150 boats annually ranging from 38-161 feet with 98 per cent exported.

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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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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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Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds to hold first show of 2024 at Lighthouse Poole

by Andy Diprose
written by Andy Diprose

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds are to hold their first show of 2024 at Lighthouse Poole on Sunday 17 March.

The intimate gig will mark Noel’s second at the venue, after first performing there 20 years ago with Oasis on 23 June 2004 – a warm up show ahead of headlining Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage just two days later.

Tickets go on sale from Friday 26 January at 9am GMT here.

Fans can look forward to a set including a wide selection of Oasis classics, as well as a cross section of material from the past dozen years of Noel Gallagher’s highly successful career as a solo artist with his band, the High Flying Birds.

The band are also set to play a sold out show at Portsmouth’s Guildhall on 20 March, just ahead of a headline performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall for the 24th annual Teenage Cancer Trust concert series on 21 March.

Summer 2024 will see Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds perform huge outdoor headline shows including Wigan’s Robin Park (Thursday 18 July), London’s Alexandra Palace Park (Saturday 20 July), as well as returning to Cardiff Castle (Wednesday 17 July), and Halifax’s The Piece Hall (Thursday 1 August) following sell out shows at these venues in 2022. Last remaining tickets available here.

The Poole announcement comes just weeks after Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ triumphant run of UK arena shows in December.

They capped off a huge end to 2023 with touring across three continents following the release of his fourth solo studio album ‘Council Skies’, a mammoth 26 date USA tour, and epic headline outdoor gigs including Crystal Palace Bowl and Brighton Beach.

The summer culminated with the band’s biggest ever headline gig to date, a celebratory homecoming show at Manchester’s Wythenshawe Park on August Bank Holiday weekend.

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ latest live performances have been described as “emotional and thrilling” by the BBC, “typically legendary” by the Daily Mirror, “effortlessly brilliant” by CLASH, “heroic” by the Evening Standard, whilst The i Newspaper confirmed, “Noel Gallagher’s gonna live forever”.

‘Council Skies’, which is widely regarded as Noel’s most complete solo statement to date,  includes ‘Open The Door, See What You Find’, ‘Pretty Boy’, ‘Easy Now’, and recent single ‘We’re Gonna Get There In The End’.

The album has received widespread critical acclaim and was featured in several Albums Of The Year lists including the likes of MOJO and Rolling Stone UK.

‘Council Skies’ is available now on CD, heavyweight vinyl with bonus 7”, LP picture disc plus various digital formats including a Dolby Atmos spatial audio version. All Council Skies formats are available here.

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Sandbanks campaign group raises sufficient funds to launch rival scheme for hotel site

by Andy Diprose
written by Andy Diprose

Residents of Sandbanks have raised the money to officially launch a rival plan for the historic Haven Hotel site to prevent three blocks of flats being built there.

A crowdfunding page has so far received double the target amount of £15,000 to cover architects fees and ancillary costs.

Sandbanks Community Group (SCG) says that having battled against the flats scheme for over six years they now have one chance to provide an alternative scheme of a replacement hotel instead of flats.

More than 6,000 letters of objection, and an online Save Sandbanks Facebook campaign against the flats was set-up before planning permission was rejected last summer.

However, an amended scheme was submitted to BCP Council which is yet to be determined.

As a result, SCG embarked on its own plans, commissioning top architect Philip Gumichdjian to produce a rival plan, named Project Marconi.

A number of hotel groups are said to be interested in backing the scheme by entering into negotiations with the owners if the SCG plans get the go-ahead.

The rival scheme retains the site’s mature trees and the hotel with all associated facilities, employment and business opportunities.

Crowning the proposed hotel will be a tower of suites topped by a beacon lighting the entrance to the harbour.

It’s described as a fitting nod to Marconi and his radio mast which stood in the same location over 130 years ago.

Norman Allenby-Smith, Chairman of Sandbanks Community Group, said: “This scheme will add significant utility and value to residents and visitors to the peninsula.

“It appears to be lower impact in environmental and sustainability terms than previous proposals and will doubtless become a much-needed iconic harbour entrance.

“A natural rival to the great Sydney harbour approach.”

 

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Have your say as controversial closure of one of Poole Park’s entrances begins today

by Andy Diprose
written by Andy Diprose

The controversial closure of one of Poole Park’s entrances starts today.

The Whitecliff Road and Twemlow Avenue entrance and exit will be closed to vehicles 24 hours a day for a trial period.

A four-week public consultation also begins today on whether to make the closure permanent.

BCP Council says reducing traffic in the park could benefit both users and wildlife.

But opponents have attacked the move and are holding a demonstration this Saturday lunchtime.

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

Other vehicle access and exit points, and parking (including disabled parking) in the park are not affected by the trial scheme.

The consultation is now open until midnight on Tuesday 13 February 2024.

The survey is on BCP Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website.

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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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University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity welcomes Morebus as official supporter

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Morebus has named University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity as its official good cause for 2024 and 2025.

The local bus operator will spend the next two years raising funds and awareness to help the charity enhance the treatment and care of patients accessing NHS services at Royal Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch hospitals.

Morebus general manager, Richard Wade, said: “University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity is a crucial local resource, helping to pay for additional equipment, research and innovations – as well as finishing touches and ‘extras’ that complement the existing high-quality care for patients across the three towns.

“It provides financial support to areas of the hospitals’ services that lie beyond the scope of NHS funding – and this is of enormous benefit to thousands of people living across our area.

“Our corporate charity is voted for by the Morebus team. Many of my colleagues have benefited directly from the support University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity provides, so we are delighted to be backing this very worthy cause and raising as much money as possible over the coming years.”

Morebus says it has a busy calendar of fundraising planned and is also promoting the charity on-board and on the rear of a bus.

“Hopefully, the messages will be seen by thousands traveling throughout the area – and this will help increase awareness for this very worthy cause,” added Richard.

Hayley Harris, corporate fundraiser for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, added: “Our new partnership with Morebus is so exciting because there are so many opportunities to make a real difference together for everybody across Dorset and the surrounding areas.

“Our hospitals and local bus service strive to achieve the same goal – to provide the best possible service for our community.

“On behalf of the charity, we are looking forward to funding further items that are above and beyond NHS funds and doing even more for our patients with the support of Morebus.”

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Date set for first live Q&A session of the year with Council leader Vikki Slade

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Council Leader Vikki Slade has announced details of her first live Q&A session of the year.

It’ll take place online with questions from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole residents on Thursday 18 January, from 12.30pm.

Comments can be submitted in advance via LiveQandA@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or contributed in real-time via the streaming platform or social channels.

Councillor Slade said: “Our continuing ambition is to put people at the heart of all our services, and I know from personal experience that the work done by our officers really makes a difference to people’s lives.

“I am starting the year by joining both our traffic enforcement and street cleaning teams as they’re out and about so I can see first-hand the fantastic job that they do and the challenges that they face, and I welcome questions about any of our services areas and the work we do.

“The future of Bournemouth town centre remains a priority for all of us and I’m also looking forward to answering questions on this and sharing some of the ideas and insights from November’s Bournemouth Town Centre Summit.”

The session will be streamed across the council’s main social media channels including on youtube.com/bcpcouncil and is available to watch later for those unable to tune in live. 

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BournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

Petition to save paddling pools in Redhill and Christchurch close to hitting target

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Over 2000 people have signed an online petition to save the Redhill Paddling Pool and Quomps Splash Park.

BCP Council is currently proposing to close the sites or transfer ownership to external partners, along with the facility at Hamworthy Park in Poole.

However, the Echo is reporting Christchurch Town Council may step in to save Quomps, which has allocated £55,000 in funds for the park in its draft budget for 2024/25.

Christchurch Town Council’s acting town clerk James Atkinson told the newspaper: “Christchurch Town Council understands the importance of the Quomps Splash Park to the local community.

“After learning of its potential closure, we have been working hard to enable its future management.

“We are investigating how the splash park can be operated in a sustainable manner, so that this much-loved community asset can be enjoyed by future generations.”

At the time of writing, a petition on change.org has just short of its 2500 target.

Organiser of the petition, Laura Ballantyne, says: “We believe that it is crucial to invest in facilities that contribute significantly to the wellbeing of our community’s families and young people.

“Let’s stand together against this proposal by signing this petition. Show BCP council how much we value our paddling pools and splashparks in Redhill and Christchurch Quomps.”

You can see and sign the petition here.

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National award for 21-year-old Rylee Dickinson from Poole

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A 21-year-old from Poole has met Her Royal Highness Princess Anne while receiving an award for public speaking.

Being honoured at the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum, Rylee Dickinson, who now lives in Christchurch, talked about how she grew up in care from the age of 13.

Rylee said it was an incredible experience and something she will take with her for the rest of her life. She said: “As soon as I went into care I was told that I would be moving to Derbyshire, and from there I was up and down the country every three months moving in and out of different accommodation. I joke about it now, but it was really tough.”

One of the only relationships to survive Rylee’s transition from childhood to adulthood is with her Personal Advisor at BCP Council, who continues to play a positive, influential role in her life and the successes she has gone on to achieve.

Rylee has lived in several “awful” hostels and supported-living accommodations since leaving care, but has recently benefitted from a more positive experience in council housing back on the south coast.

“My council flat is great, some of my previous accommodations have been so dark and depressing they took a toll on my mental health, but this one is far lighter and airier, giving me the space I need to grow as a person and address bad habits.”

She also continues to spend a significant amount of time at the 333 in Bournemouth, a facility she helped build in 2021 which provides a safe space for care-experienced young people to relax, socialise and learn.

“I was involved with the 333 project from the very start and took on a lead role which meant I was included in several project meetings during construction phases. Later on, the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum asked us to film a short video detailing our project. I was the only person to show interest and so wrote, recorded and narrated my own video.”

Shortly after her submission, Rylee’s film saw the 333 shortlisted for the organisations’ ‘project of the year’ award, with the then 20-year-old invited to attend the ceremony and give a 10-minute presentation detailing the standout features and successes of the project.

More than 150 Care Managers from several counties were in attendance, with Rylee drawing on the skills and experience she had previously developed through speaking at other public events organised by foundations such as The Prince’s Trust – founded by King Charles III.

“It’s not something I struggle with, I understand why it can unnerve some people but I don’t feel that way. I feel like I’ve already overcome so many obstacles in my life that public speaking isn’t a daunting task in comparison.”

Rylee’s ability to rise to the challenge of public speaking, despite some of the obstacles she has faced in her life, has now seen her claim the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum’s annual ‘Public Speaker of the Year’ prize. The now 21-year-old won the award to applause from many significant individuals in the care sphere, including Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, a patron of Catch 22; the organisation which formed the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum.

“I like to say it’s just my average Tuesday,” joked Rylee, who later engaged in a discussion with the Royal about her achievements. “It was an incredible experience and something I will take with me for the rest of my life.

“It has spurred me on to continue pushing forward and breaking down barriers, and my message to anyone else in care would be to do the same.”

Discussing Rylee’s achievements, Councillor Richard Burton, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People at BCP Council, said:

“I was impressed by Rylee ever since I first met her at the BCP Corporate Parenting Board. She is so willing to help voice the thoughts of care-experienced young people, using her time and skills to champion their cause. She is a great role model to children in care.

“I would like to personally congratulate Rylee on all of her outstanding accomplishments to date, and I’m excited to see what else she will go on to achieve alongside our other talented care-experienced young people.”

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92-year-old woman involved in Poole collision has died

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A woman who sustained serious injuries in a road traffic collision in Poole has very sadly died.

The incident, which occurred in Blandford Road North near Douglas Close, was reported to police at 9.13am on Saturday 6 January 2024. It involved a blue Ford Focus – driven by a local woman aged in her 40s – and a female pedestrian.

The pedestrian – 92-year-old Eileen Symes from Poole – was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries. Very sadly, she died in hospital on Monday 8 January 2024.

Her family are being supported by specially trained officers and have issued the following tribute: “Eileen was a much loved and caring person. She was a strong-willed and independent lady with a love for life. She lived a full and happy life and loved to travel.

“In her retirement years, she had a love for clothes and fashion, and she enjoyed going out for a coffee and a cake whilst out shopping.

“Eileen will be greatly missed by all who knew her, especially her niece.”

Officers are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of the collision.

Sergeant Mark Scammell, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Our thoughts go out to the family of Eileen who sadly died at what must be an extremely difficult time of them.

“We owe it to them to carry out a detailed investigation and establish the full circumstances of this collision and I would like to renew our appeal for any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please come forward.

“I am also still keen to hear from anyone who may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240002769. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

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Sandbanks named UK’s property hotspot with asking prices increasing by a fifth

by Andy Diprose
written by Andy Diprose

Sandbanks has been named as the UK’s property hotspot with asking prices increasing by a fifth in a single year.

The average price is now just over £1.9 million, according to property website Rightmove.

That compares to an average property price of £355,000 in the rest of the country.

Overall, asking prices in the UK were 1.1 per cent lower at the end of 2023 than at the same time in the previous year.

 

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BCP Council prepares to activate Severe Weather Emergency Protocol

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

BCP Council’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol could be activated this weekend as temperatures drop to below zero in the region.

Council Leader Vikki Slade is asking residents to remain cautious as the first cold snap of the year looks set to descend.

The risk of ice on top of all the surface water from the last few days is of particular concern, and teams are on stand by with a fleet of 14 gritting vehicles.

Cllr Slade added: “Although the torrential rainfall on Thursday night has led to beautifully sunny and clear afternoons since, we should all be mindful of the expected change in temperatures over the next few days.

“This cold snap will likely mean icy pavements, frozen pathways and increased risk on our roads, so I ask our residents to take care when enjoying their weekend.

“If you can, please check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours to ensure they’re keeping warm and safe.

“Our partners at St Mungo’s are closely monitoring the weather forecast and checking on our street homeless population.

“Should zero degrees be forecast over three consecutive nights, or the impact of the rain, and wind chill cause concern, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) will be activated and anyone who is sleeping rough will be encouraged to take up the offer of emergency accommodation.”

Residents are asked to report instances of internal flooding directly to the council via the BCP website.

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Darbys Lane improvements in Poole to start this month

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Work on a series of improvements for walkers, wheelers and cyclists is due to start in Poole from next Monday.

It’s expected to lead to a month of disruption as part of Darbys Lane is closed. A signed diversion will be in place.

The work forms part of a sustainable travel route between Poole town centre and Merley.

They’ll also link into the new walking, cycling and bus facilities on Wimborne Road between the New Inn and Serpentine roundabout.

The planned improvements include:

* The widening of a shared use path and vegetation clearance leading to Trigon Bridge.
* Introduction of double yellow lines and dropped kerbs to improve access to the shared path.
* Installation of a raised table across the Darbys Lane/Heath Avenue/Popes Road junction to help lower vehicle speeds.
* The widening of footways and introduction of uncontrolled crossings on all arms of the junction to make it safer and easier for pedestrians to navigate the junction.
* New wayfinding signage installed along the length of the route.
* Installation of a raised table and parallel crossing on the eastern arm of the Darbys Lane/Dorchester Road junction to encourage lower vehicle speeds and provide a separate space for pedestrians and cyclists.
* Installation of a small section of cycle lane on Darbys Lane to make it safer and easier for cyclists to navigate the junction.
* Footway widening near Oakdale Community Park to install uncontrolled crossings to make it safer and easier for pedestrians to cross the road and encourage lower vehicle speeds.

The work is anticipated to start at the Heath Avenue/Popes Road junction, which will be under two-way traffic signals between Monday 15 January and Friday 9 February.

Part of Darbys Lane will be closed during this period with the diversion, via Dorchester Road, signposted.

Julian McLaughlin, Director for Infrastructure at BCP Council, said: “I’m pleased to see these improvements get underway – it’s part of our ongoing commitment to encouraging active travel wherever possible by creating a safer and more sustainable environment for residents and school children to get around.

“Our overall aim is to create a greener, healthier, better connected community, and these improvements are helping to make that happen.”

The improvements are funded by central government’s Transforming Cities Fund.

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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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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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NewsPoole

Appeal for information after 27 garages are burgled in Poole

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Police are appealing for information after 27 garages were burgled in Poole.

18 of the garages were in Keyes Close and nine in Downey Close.

The break-ins happened around 2am on Thursday December 28.

Three young people wearing dark clothing and riding a brightly coloured pushbike were seen in the area at the time.

Police Constable Jamie Adams, of Poole police, said: “We are conducting enquiries into these burglaries, and I am keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the vicinity around the relevant timeframe.

“I would also like to ask residents in the area to check their home-security cameras to see if they have any relevant footage which may be able to help us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230202202.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

 

 

 

 

 

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BournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

BCP Council to consider new vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A new vision to replace the previous Corporate Strategy and Big Plan for the area will be discussed by the Council.

Thousands of residents and stakeholders have helped shape a proposal for the three towns will be considered by the Council’s Cabinet on December 13 and the Council on January 9.

The proposed new Corporate Strategy is Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s four-year vision for a place where people, nature, coast and towns come together in sustainable, safe and healthy communities.

Residents and stakeholders helped shape the proposed new strategy after they fed into a consultation, which involved discussion groups, an online survey and a series of roadshows led by BCP Council staff over late summer and autumn.

The new Corporate Strategy aims to create an open, transparent and accountable Council, which puts our people at its heart. It has two key priorities.

Councillor Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places, said: “We have listened to our residents about what is important to them and the input we have received has made a real difference.

“I’m grateful to everyone who took part – their ideas and suggestions have helped make sure our people and communities are put front and centre in our plans.

“I’m pleased to say that overall, the priority themes of ‘People and Communities’ and ‘Place and Environment’ were endorsed by our residents.

https://democracy.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/documents/s45858/Appendix%202%20Corporate%20Strategy%20High%20Level%20Summary.pdf

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BournemouthNewsPoole

Double Decker bus roof rips off after colliding with a tree

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

The roof of a double decker bus is on the road after being ripped off following a collision with a tree on West Way in Bournemouth.

Emergency services put road closures in place on West Way as investigation and recovery work took place.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police told Bournemouth One: “We were called at 5.46pm on Friday 1 December 2023 to reports of a collision involving a double decker bus in West Way in Bournemouth.

“It is reported that the bus had gone into a tree and the impact of the collision had caused the roof of the bus to be torn off.

“Officers and the fire service are at the scene and the road has been closed while emergency services respond to the incident.

“One passenger sustained an injury to their wrist and has been taken to hospital for treatment.”

 

 

 

 

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Firefighters deal with Poole building on fire near Constitution Hill Road

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is dealing with a building fire off Constitution Hill Road in Poole.

The emergency service is advising local residents to keep their doors and windows closed due to the large amount of smoke.

Multiple crews from around the area are in attendance.

Reports from the scene suggest it’s an old college building no longer in use.

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BournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

Things to do in Half Term across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Love is in the air this February half term with Valentine’s crafts, love trails, a wall of hearts and more to discover across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Keep the whole family entertained for hours with our handy guide to half term activities that will stop the ‘I’m bored’ sentences in their tracks and ensure a fun-filled February. 

Get crafty at the Russell Cotes Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth from 14-16 February where you can make your own Valentine’s card to give to your loved one or take a love trail through the house and garden from 11-19 February.  

True romantics can get swept up in Annie and Merton’s love story (the original owners of the museum building), from 5-8pm on 16 February with love letter writing, student artwork, live music, themed talks and Japanese inspired cocktails run by Arts University Bournemouth students. 

Over at Highcliffe Castle in Christchurch, create your own wreath of hearts to give to your special someone from 14-16 February, take part in a ‘Things that we Love’ trail from 12-16 February, or add your special message to their ‘Wall of Hearts’ and watch the love grow. 

History is the theme for the activities at Upton Country Park in Poole, where you can journey on an Historic Explorer Trail, discovering important characters in the history of the Upton Estate along the way from 11-19 February, or make some historic top hats and bonnets in the craft shed. 

Get muddy with The Parks Foundation who have activities planned for a park near you! Take part in some community gardening at Winton Recreation Ground, Bournemouth or Alexandra Park, Poole on 11 February while enjoying the great outdoors, or build a bug house at one of ten parks across the conurbation from 13-17 February.  

Get ready for spring by embarking on a spring creature themed trail at Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre in Bournemouth from 11-19 February and enjoy the picturesque sights as you amble along the River Stour. 

Crabbing at Mudeford Quay makes for the perfect free family day out. Wrap up warm, pack a picnic and prepare for a fun-filled afternoon, or venture into Christchurch and explore amongst the castle ruins.

Challenge your friends to a round of mini golf in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens and take advantage of their alternative Valentine’s promotion ‘Mates Dates’, where you can get 2-for-1 on a game of mini golf upon purchase of a drink from the nearby Hedgehog Kiosk.  

Visit Bournemouth Aviary and enjoy a warming drink from the nearby Picnic Park Deli, then wander along the tree trail in Bournemouth’s beautiful gardens to while away an afternoon.

Plan a day out in Poole Park, where you can try out the new Poole Park Railway, have fun in one of two playparks, enjoy a walk around the big lake or just relax and let the kids tire themselves out scooting around the cricket pitch!

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places commented:  “We’ve got so much going on over the half term that will delight and amuse all ages, the only problem will be choosing what to do!  

 “Spending time with your children – and in my case my grandchildren as well, provides so much joy whatever the weather – and getting outside in the fresh air is good for your wellbeing, so I encourage everyone to put their wellies on, go on a trail or two, and enjoy the activities on offer during this week.” 

And if any parents want to start the half term off with a bang, they can let their hair down at the Woodpecker Café in Queen’s Park, who will be hosting their ‘Anti-Tines’ Rock-N-Roll Quiz and Bingo night on Friday 10 February at 6pm, with a tantalising menu of pizza and cocktails for the evening, a winning combination to prepare for the week ahead if ever there was one! 

 

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BournemouthNewsPoole

BCP Council awards permanent local bus and school contracts to Morebus

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Three bus service contracts have been awarded to Morebus following a competitive tender process.

Morebus will now operate the following services;

Service 18 (From Wednesday 15 Feb)
Bournemouth, Westbourne, Upper Parkstone, Sea View, Foxholes Estate, Canford Heath, Waterloo Estate, Broadstone and West Way.

Service 33 (From Wednesday 15 Feb)
Bournemouth, Boscombe, Queens Park, Bournemouth Hospital, Southbourne and Christchurch.

Service 36 (From Wednesday 15 Feb)
Kinson, West Howe, Bournemouth University, Glenferness Avenue, Bournemouth and Talbot View Estate.

These services are currently operated by Xelabus, until Tuesday 14 February.

The start dates for the Morebus contracts mean continuity of service for all passengers. The timetables for each service will not change.

Morebus will also continue to operate the following school bus services;

Service 46 (from Monday 20 Feb)
Throop, Moordown, Winton, Charminster, Bournemouth Station, Boscombe and Pokesdown to Avonbourne Academies.

Service 81 (From Monday 20 Feb)
Charminster, Castlepoint, Townsend and Littledown to Avonbourne Academies.

Service 744 (from Tuesday 21 Feb)
Poole Old Town and Baiter to Oakdale Junior School.

These new contracts replace temporary arrangements which were introduced by the council for six months to ensure services remained for residents following the sudden demise of the previous operator Yellow Buses in August 2022.

Councillor Mike Greene, Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and Transport, said: “We are delighted to award these important bus contracts to Morebus and have pulled out all the stops to ensure that these vital routes remain in operation.

“Reliable public transport is essential to the success of any area. It was vital that we found a way to keep buses that directly serve places such as Fernbarrow Estate and West Way in Broadstone running smoothly.

“Our hard work on this – and close partnership with Morebus – means there will be no break in service and that it’s now possible for residents to travel sustainably around our area using one company.”

Andrew Wickham, Morebus managing director, added: “I am delighted to add these important public routes to our network across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole – and to continue operating the school services we were entrusted with last year.

“Our team has been doing a tremendous job, since adding new routes in 2022, following the end of Yellow Buses’ operation here.

“We are delighted to be working with BCP Council to not only safeguard these school and public services, but to ensure taking the bus is an attractive alternative to travelling by car. This will play an important role in reducing congestion and improving the air we breathe on the south coast.

“In order to do this, we have invested heavily in new buses with low emissions Euro 6 engines over recent years, each featuring the latest in on-board technology – including usb chargers for smart phones and tablets, and tap on, tap off payments. Our pioneering app also offers technology so powerful, those travelling with us can save their regular journeys, mark bus stops or routes as their favourites, track exactly where their bus is at any given time and, of course, buy their tickets.

“We won’t rest on our laurels though – and will continue to look for new ways to improve our offering here.

“I am delighted that Morebus will now be providing a comprehensive service across the region, giving people better value-for-money and a joined-up bus network our customers – old and new – can rely on.”

Morebus has also been awarded the contract for the Route ONE Town Centre from Poole Bus Station to the Hospital, Train Station, Quay and Baiter Park. This service will also remain unchanged.

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Secure cycle hub to open in The Dolphin Shopping Centre

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A new secure public cycle storage facility is set to open in Poole Town Centre soon thanks to funding from the Transforming Travel scheme.

The Dolphin Cycle Hub, located in the Dolphin Shopping Centre in a unit opposite Primark’s entrance, comes as a result of BCP Council partnering with Legal and General Investment Management Real Assets, the owners of the Dolphin Centre.

The cycle hub model will be provided by Spokesafe and will include secure parking for up to 34 bikes, scooters, cargo bikes and non-standard cycles safely, providing 24-hour access for members.

Funded by the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund, the modern facility is part of BCP and Dorset Councils’ Transforming Travel programme to create and promote greener, healthier, better-connected travel options across south east Dorset, particularly for shorter journeys. The programme aims to transform local travel, reduce road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and bring economic and health benefits across the conurbation.

LGIM, in partnership with BCP Council, identified a need for a secure public cycle storage hub within Poole to encourage people to cycle when visiting the town. The Dolphin Centre was chosen as the ideal location for the brand-new facility due to its high footfall from local residents, shoppers, employees, and commuters who use both the bus and train station for onward travel.

Councillor Mike Greene, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for transport and sustainability, said: “We’re delighted to have secured money from central government’s Active Travel Fund to invest in this innovative cycle storage facility at The Dolphin.

“We know how important it is for people to have access to safe, reliable places to lock their bikes. It’s an essential part of encouraging and enabling people to cycle to work, the shops, education or leisure. We can’t wait for this fantastic new cycle hub to open and hope that it’s the first of several to be installed across the BCP Council region. We look forward to as many people as possible using it.”

Greg Westover, Fund Head of Retail and Leisure at Legal & General, said: “The Dolphin Cycle Hub is for everyone in our community, from shoppers to residents, workers, and retailers. At The Dolphin, we are committed to being environmentally responsible and are always looking for new ways to promote sustainable alternatives that have a positive impact in the community.

“We’re really pleased to be partnering with BCP Council on this project because The Dolphin Cycle Hub complements the work that is already being actioned in the locality to improve cycle routes and provide more sustainable travel options. Not only will the cycle hub make a significant difference to our local environment, it will also reduce congestion on our roads and boost wellbeing by encouraging people to get outside and move. We believe all initiatives which support wellbeing are vitally important, particularly at this time of year.”

The Dolphin Cycle Hub will offer a range of affordable and flexible storage pricing options from as little as £1 per day for Pay As You Go bookings, with cheaper options available for weekly and monthly memberships.

There will be a repair station and pump in the hub, as well as personal storage lockers. Electric charger points will also be available for members to use while storing their e-bikes.

Visit the Spokesafe website for more details.

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BournemouthNewsPoole

Man convicted of murdering 21-year-old Thomas Roberts jailed for life

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

A man convicted of murdering 21-year-old Thomas Roberts in a stabbing in Bournemouth town centre has been handed a life sentence.

Lawangeen Abdulrahimzai, of Poole, was sentenced on Wednesday 25 January 2023 after being found guilty of murder following a trial at Salisbury Crown Court. He was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum period of 29 years.

The fatal incident occurred at around 4.30am on Saturday 12 March 2022 outside Subway in Old Christchurch Road. The victim was with a friend, who became involved in a disagreement with the defendant over an unattended electric scooter.

Mr Roberts, who was acting as a peacemaker during the incident, was stabbed twice to his left side by Abdulrahimzai. The victim collapsed on the ground as the defendant fled the scene.

Members of the public provided first aid before police officers and paramedics attended and took over. Mr Roberts was taken to hospital and, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was sadly pronounced dead at 8.10am.

An investigation was launched and led by detectives from Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT).

Abdulrahimzai was identified through a phone that was left near the scene and subsequent CCTV enquiries and was arrested during the early hours of Sunday 13 March 2022.

During the course of the MCIT investigation, it was revealed that Abdulrahimzai had a previous conviction for murder in Serbia relating to the killing of two people in 2018. The defendant had fled the country before he was convicted in his absence. He also had also been convicted for drug offences in Italy in 2017.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Huxter, of MCIT, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Thomas Roberts and I want to thank them again for the dignified way they have conducted themselves throughout the investigation and court proceedings.

“I would also like to thank all those from Dorset Police and the prosecution team from the Crown Prosecution Service, who have worked tirelessly to achieve justice for Tommy and his family.

“Tommy’s family and loved ones have suffered an unspeakable loss as a result of this horrific incident involving a knife. If you believe someone is in immediate possession of a knife or offensive weapon, please dial 999. If you would like to report your concerns about a knife carrier or need some advice, please call 101 or visit dorset.police.uk and report it online.”

DCI Huxter added: “Matters relating to the defendant’s background and previous convictions have been shared with relevant agencies to ensure appropriate reviews are carried out and areas for learning are identified. However, my focus over the past nine months as senior investigating officer has been to gather evidence relating to the brutal murder of Thomas Roberts and ensure his killer was brought to justice for this offence.”

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BournemouthNewsPoole

Bournemouth and Poole’s seafront gets £18.2m government funding

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

BCP Council has been awarded £18.2m in government funding to help rejuvenate Bournemouth and Poole’s seafront.

The Levelling Up Fund cash will go towards key seafront projects over the next three years as part of the council’s Big Plan to create a world-class seafront.

Councillor Philip Broadhead, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Development, Growth and Regeneration said: “This is fantastic news for our whole conurbation. It has been an amazing team effort securing this money, and I’d particularly like to thank Conor Burns MP who has been instrumental in promoting these plans with government.

“Investing in our seafront is at the heart of our Big Plan and this funding will go towards much needed improvements and upgrades cementing our destination offering as one of the best in the country.

“This money will help improve seafront infrastructure and public spaces, ensuring it meets the needs and expectations of current and future generations.

“It will also see the creation of more jobs for local people, attracting new visitors down south and encouraging everyone to explore the rich coastal heritage and rural beaches beyond Bournemouth, attracting further investment along the award-winning coastline.”

The planned improvements include much-needed repairs to Bournemouth’s iconic Pier, extending its life and creating new opportunities to develop it further.

The East Cliff stabilisation works were also part of the bid, which would allow the promenade to be re-opened as a first stage, with longer term aspirations to reinstate a new cliff lift.

One of the big projects is the refurbishment and extension of the existing building at Joseph Steps into a new a RNLI lifeguard training and education centre as well as a community hub for everyone to enjoy.

Other plans submitted include seawall repairs at Hamworthy Park, which would secure the future of the promenade, and improvements to the public realm between Bournemouth West Cliff and Boscombe Pier which include more power and water services as well as a 5G infrastructure to allow for the development of further leisure facilities.

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places commented: I’m truly delighted that we’ve received this funding for the seafront. It feeds into our seafront strategy and will be spent on projects that will have a significant impact on our seafront development, such as the rejuvenation of Bournemouth Pier which needs infrastructure repairs, and stabilising the East Cliff which will enable us to leverage funding and investment opportunities for a new cliff lift in the future.

“We submitted several cultural projects as part of the bid, including a public art heritage trail linking key heritage sites along the coastline, and studies to develop proposals for a Visual Arts Centre at Holes Bay, so I’m looking forward to seeing all these improvements come to fruition.”

Councillor Toby Johnson, Lead Member for Levelling Up and Skills said: “This funding award is great news for the development of the seafront, both from an economic point of view as well as a holiday destination. The economic benefits through these projects will open up further investment opportunities, creating more jobs for our residents along the way and improving people’s health and wellbeing with more opportunities to get outside and enjoy our outstanding seafront.”

Work on the proposals is expected to start later this year and will be delivered over the next three years.

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Poole

A341 Magna Road blocked by flooding between Bear Cross and Gravel Hill

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Flooding is affecting many roads around Bournemouth and East Dorset this afternoon following heavy rain on Saturday morning.

The A431 Magna Road is blocked by flood water and drivers are taking to the pavements to avoid the issues.

A video posted on Twitter shows vehicles turning around but others decided to take an alternative course of action.

Magna Road runs between Ringwood Road at Bear Cross to the A349 Gravel Hill.

Elsewhere, the A338 is now open between Ringwood and Salisbury but traffic lights are in operation to avoid flooding at Fordingbridge, and Ham Lane is partially blocked due to flooding near the A31 Canford Bottom roundabout.

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BournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

BCP residents urged to check their photo ID ahead of May’s local elections

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Voters in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area will need to show an accepted form of photographic identification at this year’s local elections.

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station is a new condition, introduced under the UK Government’s Elections Act, which comes into effect for the first time this May.

BCP Council is urging Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole residents to make sure they are ready to vote in 2023’s local elections by checking now for an accepted form of ID and bringing it with them to the polling station in May.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

If voters don’t have accepted photo ID, they can apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a ‘Voter Authority Certificate’ later this month.

Graham Farrant, Returning Officer at BCP Council said: “With council elections taking place in BCP on 4 May 2023, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.

“Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate either online or by completing a paper application form when this service launches in a few weeks’ time.”

Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections – or wishes to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate – must also be registered to vote by Monday 17 April 2023.

Residents can check to see if they are already on the electoral register and find out more information on BCP Council’s elections at: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/elections, by calling 01202 123400, or emailing elections@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Those needing to register to vote can do so at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Residents will not need to provide photo ID to vote by post. To apply to vote by post, application forms must reach the council by 5pm on Tuesday 18 April 2023.

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Poole

Six months of work planned for the B3093 Wimborne Road in Poole

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Temporary traffic lights are in operation on Wimborne Road in Poole at the junction with Fernside Road from January 8th at 7pm till July 2023.

The signals are there whilst the next phase of work on sustainable travel improvements along Wimborne Road takes place, with delays expected at peak times.

The junction of Darby’s Lane with Wimborne Road will be temporarily closed to cyclists during this period too.

The new layout of the New Inn junction will include dedicated space for cyclists linking to/from Darbys Lane, new crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists, traffic signal upgrades, and barriers removed for cyclists accessing Mellstock Road.

BCP Council is also widening pavements and converting them to shared use, providing more space for people cycling and walking around the junction. There will also be no left-turn from Fernside Road into Wimborne Road and the removal of the dedicated turning lane to provide space for the new crossings.

Other improvements include:

  • Improving the Serpentine Road roundabout with three new parallel crossings on raised tables, with footways converted to shared use for both pedestrians and cyclists
  • Installing new cycle lanes on both sides of Wimborne Road between Heckford Road and New Inn junction, protected from the carriageway by a kerb with raised table priority over adjoining roads. All parking will be removed along the western side of the road between Tatnam Road and New Inn junction to provide the space for the cycle lanes
  • Installing a new uncontrolled crossing point with tactile paving and dropped kerbs at St Margaret’s Road. The dedicated right-turn lane on Wimborne Road will be removed, but right-turn movements into St Margaret’s Road will still be possible
  • Upgrading the Tatnam Road/Garland Road junction, with raised table parallel crossings over the adjoining roads and toucan crossings installed to the south and north of the junction. The dedicated right-turn lanes on Wimborne Road will be removed, but right-turn movements into Tatnam Road and Garland Road will still be possible
  • Installing a new zebra crossing on Garland Road
  • Installing a new pedestrian crossing just north of Sherrin Close/Winterbourne Road junction
  • Introducing shared space at bus stops, with five stops being slightly relocated

See more details on the plans here.

 

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Dorset Police search for Poole man after he failed to attend court

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Officers are appealing for information from the public to assist with locating a wanted man from Poole.

Ryan Velkoop, aged 29, is wanted for failing to attend at court in connection with an allegation of vehicle interference.

He is described as being around five feet four inches tall and of slim build with brown hair.

Police Constable Dan Goodman, of Poole police, said: “We have been carrying out various enquiries to locate Ryan Velkoop and these efforts are ongoing.

“I am also appealing to the public for anyone with information regarding Velkoop’s whereabouts to please contact us.

“I would ask anyone who sees Velkoop not to approach him, but to instead dial 999 immediately.”

If you see Ryan Velkoop, you should call 999 immediately. Anyone with other information should call 101, quoting occurrence 55220206049 or contact Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

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NewsPoole

Three electric bikes stolen from Cycle Paths in Falkland Square

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Police are investigating the theft of three electric bikes in Poole from the Cycle Paths store in Falkland Square.

A CCTV image of one of the suspects has been released and anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police.

At around 1.40am on Wednesday 14 December 2022 entry was forced to Cycle Paths in Falkland Square and three electric bikes, valued at more than £14,000, were stolen.

Police Constable Tessa Morrison, of Poole police, said; “We are carrying out enquiries into this burglary and have obtained a CCTV image of one of the three suspects.

“I would urge anyone with information relating to those involved in this incident to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220200995. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

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MT Rainey OBE appointed Chair of the Poole Arts Trust

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Poole Arts Trust, the charity that runs Lighthouse, has announced the appointment of MT Rainey OBE as its new Chair.

The former Deputy Chair of Channel 4, she brings a wealth of experience from commercial roles in the creative industries that saw her honoured with an OBE for services to advertising in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. After eight years in the USA as Planning Director at Chiat/Day working with Apple and other early Silicon Valley companies, MT founded and was CEO of top advertising agency Rainey Kelly Campbell Roalfe. She also served as Vice Chair of Creative Skillset, the UK Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries and is a Trustee of The Booker Prize.

“It’s a privilege to be asked to Chair this very loved, respected and important organisation,” says MT. “I’ve been coming to Lighthouse since I first had a home here in Poole in 2004 – in fact, it was one of the reasons I came. For an arts venue outside of London the quality and diversity of the programme is amazing.”

An avid consumer of the arts in all their guises, MT is looking forward to bringing her background in Brands and Marketing to bear in a sector she knows and loves so well.

“We have very loyal audiences, and while some elements of the programme bring in new audiences, I still think not enough people in this area know what a jewel in the crown they have on their doorstep and how many choices they have at Lighthouse on any night of the week. I’m hoping I can bring my specific expertise to bear on that particular challenge.”

Since joining the Board of Trustees in 2020, MT has been contributing her expertise to a range of projects supporting the team to develop the new website and recent brand refresh that has seen the logo updated, new signage and the adoption of the tagline ‘Different Every Day’.

“The team crafted that strapline and to me it brilliantly encapsulates the promise of Lighthouse,” she explains.

In common with venues across the country, Lighthouse continues to recover from the pandemic and audiences are returning in encouragingly greater numbers. But with rising costs in every aspect of the business, the worsening effects of the cost of living crisis, soaring energy prices and deepening economic hardship, there are enormous challenges to that recovery.

However, having recently retained Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation status, MT is certain Lighthouse will meet such challenges with characteristic creativity and ingenuity.

“Lighthouse is incredibly well led by Elspeth and her team who have steered it carefully and successfully through the various challenges of the last few years,” she says.

“The role of the Board now is to make sure that this precious asset is sustainable into this uncertain future, and I think that this will increasingly mean working together with other arts organisations to make the case for the importance of the arts in a healthy society. It will also be about making sure that we offer value for money to our audiences and reaching out to forge even deeper ties with our communities.

“So, it’s a serious job, but it’s also seriously good fun.”

Lighthouse Chief Executive Elspeth McBain is delighted that MT has accepted the role as Chair. She says: “We are thrilled to have MT Rainey as our new Chair of the Lighthouse Board, and already her extensive experience and expertise is having a real impact. I am excited to be working with her, and her enthusiasm and knowledge of the arts is a great asset.”

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BournemouthNewsPoole

Upton Country Park opens its brand new Welcome Centre

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Upton Country Park in Poole has a new Welcome Centre complete with a bio-diverse living meadow roof now open. It will serve as a front door to the park and provide improved facilities for visitors, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Community Fund.

The Mayor of Poole, Councillor Tony Trent, will help open the new building.

It will boast interactive and immersive displays which will bring the park’s history to life, provide a glimpse inside the Grade II* listed Upton House, and will explore the importance of the varied landscapes within the park.

Three bug hotels have been created and framed in the building’s walls alongside swallow nest cups and bat boxes to encourage even more nature into the park and around the centre.

New unisex toilet facilities, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities will also be available at the centre, which will officially open its doors to the public from 10am on Saturday 17 December.

The centre was delivered as part of Upton Country House’s Discovery Project and has been supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Community Fund, as part of its Parks for People programme.

Councillor Mark Anderson, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Place at BCP Council, said: “The Discovery Project continues to deliver significant improvements across the Park, benefiting our visitors, volunteers, and local schools.

“The opening of the Upton Country Park Welcome Centre is a significant milestone for the Project that has been made possible by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund, BCP Council and the Friends of Upton Country Park.

“Construction of the centre was delivered by Greendale Construction Ltd, and contents overseen by Imagemakers. Visitors will now be able to learn more about the history of the estate, alongside the wonderful range of events, activities and wildlife that the park continues to support today.”

Stuart McLeod, National Lottery Heritage Fund Director for London and South said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of the new Welcome Centre as part of the larger Discovery Project.

“This has been supported thanks to money raised by National Lottery players as part of the Parks for People programme. The £1.5million grant has helped to improve the visitor facilities, restore the historical features and reinstate lost landscapes at Upton Country Park. With community at the heart of the restoration, this ambitious makeover ensures this Grade II* listed building, and its surrounds will be enjoyed by visitors and the local community for many years to come.”

The Welcome Centre will play host to the start of the Christmas Woodland Adventure trail, running from 17 December 22 until 01 January 2023. Visitors will also be able to shop from the new retail offer, perfect for last minute Christmas shopping. With a range of products, there is a treat to be had on any budget.

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BournemouthChristchurchNewsPoole

Free travel offered on bikes and buses over Christmas by BCP Council

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Beryl bikes will be free for the first 15 minutes in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in the run up to Christmas whilst More Bus is offering cheaper travel over the festive period.

Beryl is offering the free minutes for free on pedal bike journeys finishing in specific Beryl Bays in each of the three town centres.

The offer is available on specific days and times, including Thursday 15 and 22 December from 5pm to midnight and across all weekends running up to Christmas. It will also be available on Christmas Eve. Rides must either start or end at specified bays to qualify for the offer.

For more information including the location of relevant Beryl bays, download the Beryl app here.

Morebus is offering a ‘5 for a Fiver’ group ticket. For £5, up to five people travelling together can hop on and off buses to and through Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole town centres. The £5 ticket can be bought from the driver as you board. It’s available anytime on Saturdays and Sundays until 24 December, as well as after 6pm on Thursday late night shopping nights until 22 December 2022. Details of the offer can be found here.

Cllr Mike Greene, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and Transport said: “Journeys by bus and bike are stress-free, low-cost and environmentally friendly ways of travelling this Christmas. If you can, why not leave the car at home and jump on a bus or grab a Beryl bike to visit the brilliant Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland, Christchurch’s Yuletide Festival or Poole’s new Christmas Maritime Light Festival.”

Phil Ellis, Beryl CEO and co-founder, said: “We know that December can be a busy time for town centres and we hope our offer will encourage people to leave the car at home and use our bikes as a cheaper and more sustainable alternative.

“By doing this they can help reduce traffic congestion and harmful carbon emissions, improve their physical and mental health and the quality of the region’s air.”

Nikki Honer, Go South Coast’s Head of Marketing said: “We hope our festive ‘five for a fiver’ group offer will help families with the cost of living and congestion in our towns in the run up to Christmas. Both Poole and Bournemouth have fantastic free Christmas light events this year and we are keen for local people to be able to enjoy these without the need for their car.”

Beryl Bays included in the promotion:

Bournemouth town centre

Richmond Gardens
Horseshoe Common
Turtle Bay
Bournemouth Town Hall
Burlington Arcade
Beales Place
Gervis Place
Bournemouth Square
Avenue Rd East
Avenue Rd West
Bournemouth Triangle
Commercial Rd
Terrace Rd
Exeter Crescent
Westover Rd
Bath Hill Roundabout
Harry Ramsdens
Bath Rd
Lower Gardens
Bournemouth Gardens
Hotel Collingwood

Christchurch town centre

Town Quay
Mayors Mead Car Park
Willow Way Car Park
Regent Way
Regent Centre
Druitt Hall
Christchurch High St
Travelodge High St
Waitrose Christchurch
Beaconsfield Rd
Stour Rd
Christchurch Train Station South
Christchurch Train Station North

Poole town centre

Labrador Drive
Newfoundland Drive
Dolphin Swimming Pool
Poole Bus Depot
Lighthouse
Poole Station
Poole Station Holes Bay
Cycle Paths Falkland Square
Falkland Square
Kingland Crescent
Poole High St
RNLI College
Queen Mary
Poole Old Town
Lagland St
Poole Quay
Poole Museum

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Poole

Sandbanks Ferry not expected back till the end of February 2023

by Roy Martin
written by Roy Martin

Work on the planned refit of the Sandbanks Ferry has been delayed again till the end of February 2023.

The company says the planned work for the ferry refit has progressed well and is almost complete, and had it not been for the damage that occurred enroute to Falmouth, it would be looking for a weather window to be towed back to Poole on time.

The repairs to the damaged areas of the ferry are progressing and the new prow arm is planned to be fitted next week. Two new prow ramp sections have been ordered and are currently being produced in Poland by the original makers.

The company said: “Delivery of these is expected in early February 2023, but this was the quickest option available and not the cheapest. When the new prow ramps arrive in the UK they will need to be fitted and once that is complete, we will commence with pre-service checks and sea trials.”

Jason du Toit, the Sandbanks Ferry Company’s Managing Director, added “We are going as fast as we are able so as to minimise time out of service. The repairs we are undertaking are subject to various time-consuming approvals for safety reasons. I share all our customers frustration at the extended absence of the service and can once again only apologise.

“We expect that the ferry service will recommence by the end of February 2023. ”

All prepaid Sandbanks Ferry Ticket Card (SFTC) Passes will automatically have their expiry date extended by 3 months. SFTC’s are available free of charge from the Ferry Office and the Toll Booths on Ferry Road. Further details can be found here.

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NewsPoole

Three year old girl bitten on her leg by a dog in Canford Heath

by B1
written by B1

A three-year-old girl has been bitten on her leg by a dog at the bus shelter opposite The Pilot pub in Adastral Road in Canford Heath, Poole.

Police are investigating the incident that happened around 5.15pm on Tuesday 15 November 2022.

The woman with the dog denied it had bit her and left the scene without giving her details.

UPDATE 4PM: A woman has come forward following an appeal in relation to a report of a dog bite incident in Poole.

She is described as aged in her 70s, white, around five feet two inches tall and of medium build with short white curly hair. She was wearing a dark-coloured coat with the hood up.

There were also two women at the bus stop, one of whom had a predominantly white Jack Russell.

Police Constable Jennie Sykes-Martin, of Dorset Police, said: “We have been carrying out enquiries into this incident and as we have now obtained full details from the victim’s mother, I am in a position to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to contact us.

“I would also urge the woman involved to please do the right thing and get in touch with us so we can take your account of what happened.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220186197. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

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