THREE new town councils could be created across Bournemouth and Poole as part of efforts to give people more say in their local area. 

Under proposals, new town councils would be created in Bournemouth, Broadstone and Poole which would be separate from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council.

These new councils could take over running of parks, car parks, allotments, celebrations and festivals, but statutory services such as children’s and adult’s services would not fall under their remit.

A task and finish group made up of a cross-party group of 10 councillors was established following a Community Governance Review and consultation that took place earlier in the year, with the group putting forward their proposals.

However, the vast majority of residents aren’t happy with the proposals.

67% respondents to the consultation in Broadstone disagreed with the plans, alongside 65% in Poole and 76% in Bournemouth.

BCP leader councillor Millie Earl said the council made a commitment to explore ways to give communities more say over decision that affect their area.

“A wide variety of views have been expressed through the consultation, and I would like to thank all of those who took the time to take part and provide us with vital information that have helped shape and inform the group’s recommendations,” she said.

“I now look forward to the recommendations going through the normal democratic scrutiny process which will provide all councillors with an opportunity for healthy and meaningful debate on this important matter.”

Cllr Oliver Walters, chair of the task and finish group, said: “The task and finish group was appointed by council to oversee the review and to make draft and then final recommendations.

“As part of our work, we analysed all comments submitted by residents and organisations through the consultation.

“The group considered various options in developing these final recommendations. Ward councillors and representatives of the existing parish and town councils were invited to submit written representations and to attend and address the group.

“The final recommendations bring Poole, Bournemouth and Broadstone back in line with the rest of Dorset; allows for the removal of the Charter Trustees, replacing with the town councils, and delivers further decision-making power back into the hands of the people living in these areas.”

The recommendations will be considered before the council’s overview and scrutiny board, cabinet, and hearing of full council in October.

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