New parish councils proposed for Bournemouth and Poole
The Council's looking to introduce them into seven areas
New parish councils could be created in Bournemouth and Poole, as the unitary authority says it could give people 'greater influence on local issues'.
BCP Council's asked the community for their views, as part of a review of local Government structures.
It's now being recommended that new parish authorities are set up for Broadstone; Redhill; Northbourne; Boscombe and Pokesdown; and Southbourne; with town councils for Poole and Bournemouth.
BCP Council Leader, Cllr Millie Earl, said: “I am really grateful to everyone who responded to the invitation for proposals and thank the working group for their work in considering the expressions of interests from residents and community groups in parish and town councils.
“It is too soon to say what the eventual outcome will be, but I am pleased that the current recommendations provide for everyone to have the opportunity to be part of a parish council.
“Parish councils allow local people to have a greater say in what happens in their area, and while BCP Council will continue to provide all of our core services, we would work hand in hand with any new parish councils that are created.
“I very much look forward to the continuing discussions and consultation as this review takes place, and would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to have their say.”
Parish councils typically focus on things like managing parks, car parks, community centres, cemeteries and public conveniences.
Other local amenities, which they can be involved with, can include Christmas decorations, street furniture, litter bins, seating, bus shelters, and community events and entertainment.
They also have a right to be consulted on planning applications, can draw up neighbourhood plans, can help with crime prevention, and can even promote local tourism.
Currently BCP has five parish authorities - Christchurch Town Council; Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council; Burton and Winkton Parish Council; Hurn Parish Council and Throop and Holdenhurst Parish Council.
BCP's Cabinet will consider the plans at their meeting this week (Wednesday 5th March), before it's passed to the Full Council meeting on 25th March.
A public consultation will then follow, with people able to pass on views by 22nd June.
All responses will be considered, before a final recommendation is drawn up for a Full Council meeting on 14th October.
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