Poole | Posted on July 30th, 2026 | return to news

Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor get a new face

Claire Starmer will chair the Neighbourhood Board for the Pride in Place project which receives government funding.

Hamworthy resident Claire Starmer, has been appointed as the chairperson of the Neighbourhood Board for the Pride in Place project that has started in both areas. Under the project, the government will release £20 million over the next 10 years to enable local people to invest in services and facilities that will have a lasting impact on the area and the local community.

Ms Starmer was appointed after an open recruitment process – and demonstrated a lifelong commitment to the area and a passion to make sure the voices of local people are both listened to and acted upon. Alongside Claire, Avril Atkins was also appointed to be the vice chairperson of the Neighbourhood Board.

As Independent Chair, Claire will provide strategic leadership to the Neighbourhood Board, working closely with residents, community organisations, partners, BCP Council and the local MP to ensure local priorities are at the heart of decision-making.

Ms Starmer said: “It is a real privilege to have been chosen to chair the Pride in Place Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor Neighbourhood Board. Poole has always been my home, and after nearly three decades living in Turlin Moor and bringing up my children here, this community means a great deal to me. I care deeply about helping it grow into a place that reflects the pride, character and potential of the people who live here.

“This is a valuable opportunity for local people to help shape the future of our community, ensuring that money spent reflects residents’ priorities, hopes and ambitions. I look forward to working with the board, partners and the wider community to support positive and lasting improvements for Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor.”

Leading the interview process, local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan said: “Claire will make a fantastic leader because she has the community’s best interests at heart. She knows the area well and is absolutely committed to ensuring that local residents decide what happens with the £20m. This is an exciting chapter in the Hamworthy story which is only just beginning.”

Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, said: ” I’m delighted to congratulate Claire on her appointment as an Independent Chair and Avril as Vice-Chair for the Pride in Place Board for Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor as they begin this exciting new chapter.

“This is an important milestone as we move from setting up the programme to putting the structures in place that will empower local people to shape the future of their community.

“Pride in Place is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will bring significant investment into the area, but its success depends on local voices leading the conversation about what matters most.

“I look forward to seeing the board begin its work with residents, community organisations and partners to develop a shared vision and deliver lasting benefits.”

Pride in Place is a national programme funded by the UK Government, designed to empower local communities to shape the future of their neighbourhoods.

Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor is the first of the three areas in the BCP conurbation to appoint their chairperson, alongside Boscombe West and West Howe. The initiative aims to support long-term improvements chosen by residents, helping create stronger, more connected communities and places in which people can be proud.