Bournemouth, Christchurch, Political, Poole | Posted on June 12th, 2025 | return to news
Your voice matters: BCP consultation closes soon
There’s just over a week left for residents to have their say on the future of local democracy across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
A Community Governance Review organised by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, is exploring proposals to set up new town and parish councils in areas currently without them: Broadstone, Redhill and Northbourne, Boscombe and Pokesdown, and Southbourne, with the remainder of the former Poole Council area having a town council, and the remainder of the former Bournemouth Council area also having a town council.
Consultation on the proposed changes will close on Sunday 22 June 2025.
BCP Council leader, Cllr Millie Earl, said: “We’re committed to giving local communities more say over decisions which affect their local area.
“The introduction of town and parish councils offers neighbourhoods the opportunity to take more control over what matters most to them, which is why it is important that we hear from as many people as possible.
“If established, new town and parish councils can deliver local services, support community projects, and provide a platform for residents’ voices to be heard. The people of BCP know their area best – their local knowledge and experience are vital to shaping future governance and generations to come.”
The BCP conurbation already has four parish councils and a town council which focus on local priorities, projects, and activities such as improving parks, managing car parks and community centres, providing street furniture, Christmas decorations and events.
Town and parish councils focus on local priorities, with the same statutory powers as each other – the only differences are population size and that town councils would typically have a mayor.
To find out more and to have your say, visit www.haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/cgr-consultation or pick up a paper copy of the consultation at any BCP Council Library.
Residents are encouraged to speak to their local ward councillors to understand what the proposals could mean for their area.
“I welcome this chance to encourage residents to take part in the consultation before it closes,” said Cllr Millie Earl. “This is your community, and your voice really matters.”
Following consideration of the responses, final recommendations will be drawn up and presented to the Full Council meeting on 14 October 2025.
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