Bournemouth, Christchurch, Political, Poole | Posted on February 26th, 2026 | return to news

Info sessions for new Bournemouth town council elections

New town councils are to be established in Broadstone, Poole and Bournemouth and information sessions are to be held for prospective candidates.

Town council elections are to be held in Broadstone, Poole and Bournemouth for the first time and to help people who want to find out more about becoming a candidate, information sessions are to be held.
The new town councils could provide and maintain amenities like parks, playgrounds and community centres and improve services like street cleaning, lighting and local events.

People can attend any session as they will all follow the same format: eligibility for standing for election; completing nomination papers and booking an appointment; campaigning and spending; and key election dates.

Matt Pitcher, head of Electoral Services at BCP Council, said: “These briefing sessions offer prospective candidates a valuable opportunity to understand the key requirements of the election process. They will cover eligibility criteria, the correct completion of nomination papers, and guidance on campaigning and election spending.

“Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions and seek clarification. The sessions are designed to ensure all prospective candidates are well informed and fully prepared for the forthcoming elections.”
There will be three briefing sessions:

Poole: Thursday 26 February at 5.30pm – The Guildhall, Market Street, Poole BH15 1NF.
Broadstone: Monday 2 March at 6pm – Broadstone Methodist Church, Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone BH18 8DP.
Bournemouth: Thursday 5 March at 6pm – HMS Pheobe, BCP Council Civic Centre, Bourne Avenue, Bournemouth BH2 6DY.

People can book a place online via links on bcpcouncil.gov.uk/candidate-2026. If you are unable to attend a session in person, you can join the virtual MS Teams session on Thursday 5 March at 6pm.

Tags: #bcpcouncil, bcp