Bournemouth council housing residents together with those from Poole Housing Partnership came together at the Howe Croft Community Centre for lunch, to share memories and reminisce. There was also a chance to browse historical local housing pictures, talk to council officers and find out about activities within their communities.

It is 100 years since the Housing and Town Planning Act 1919, later known as the ‘Addison Act’, launched the system of council housing nationwide.

BCP Council has created a unique piece of wooden art to mark the anniversary. A magnificent western redwood tree in the grounds of 1543-1545 Wimborne Road, Kinson was facing removal as it had died and was causing safety concerns. The top section was removed, but the heart wood was found to be suitable for carving and the stump was earmarked for this special piece.

The main tree carving features historical local legend and famous resident Isaac Gulliver. He was a landowner and larger than life character who lived in Kinson – as well as in Wimborne.

Locally, sturdy family homes had been completed for families in Southbourne, Winton and Kinson from around 1920 – just a year after the act was passed.