Published on Wednesday 11 June 2025
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 consultation on the proposed changes closes on Sunday 22 June 2025.
The review, organised by 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.
The consultation has already generated significant discussion across the community, showing how much people care about having a stronger voice in how their areas are run.
Now, the council is urging more residents to share their views before the deadline.
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 benefits from having four parish councils and a town council which focus on local priorities, projects, and activities such as improving parks and greenspaces, managing car parks and community centres, providing street furniture, Christmas decorations and community events and entertainment.
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.
You can find out more information about how the already established parish and town councils operate on our consultation website, alongside helpful FAQs, resources and CGR video series by Cllr Andy Martin giving Highcliffe and Walkford as an example, which are also available on our social media.
Residents can have their say by completing the online survey at haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/cgr-consultation or by picking up a paper copy of the consultation at any BCP Council Library.
This isn’t just a survey – it’s a conversation. 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,” added Cllr Millie Earl. “This is your community, and your voice really matters.”
All responses will be carefully considered with final recommendations to be drawn up and presented to the Full Council meeting on 14 October 2025.