What a beautiful few days it’s been across the coast. This May half term has genuinely felt more like the middle of July, with packed beaches, sparkling blue water and that feeling that summer has suddenly arrived early.

Over the last few boiling hot days I’ve been watching the sailing regatta out on the Poole Bay, exploring rock pools at Studland, swimming in the sea and spotting huge numbers of tiny hermit crabs around Sandbanks. We’re so fortunate to have so much on our doorstep!

This week’s issue is packed with local updates and there’s plenty happening across Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch. We look at the election of Poole’s new Mayor, plans for AFC Bournemouth’s stadium expansion, major flood defence works starting around Holes Bay, and a fresh new Local Plan beginning to shape the future of the BCP area.

There’s also a huge amount going on for families during half term, with activities right across the area, plus new public mosaic artwork appearing along the Christchurch coastline.

And if you’re looking for things to do, it’s another packed week. Dorset Art Weeks is in full swing with exhibitions across the area, while the live music line-up is absolutely enormous this week. From gigs at Lighthouse and St Peter’s Church to outdoor festivals, jazz nights, acoustic sessions, vintage festivals and live music on Poole Quay, there’s something happening every night.

Have a fantastic week and enjoy the sunshine while it lasts!

PooleNow is now proudly sponsored by Bournemouth One, the local radio station bringing you music, news and travel updates across Dorset. Listen whilst you read!

Poole has officially welcomed its new civic leaders following the first Full Council meeting of the new Poole Town Council.

Tracey Newman has been elected as Poole’s new Mayor, with Steve Hayes appointed Deputy Mayor and Rosemarie Stirk taking on the role of Sheriff.

The appointments mark a historic moment as the first civic positions selected by the newly formed Town Council. Former Mayor Mark Howell reflected on his time in office, saying: “Being the 777th Mayor of Poole has been an absolute privilege.” He also wished the incoming Mayor the very best for the year ahead.

The new civic team will now begin representing Poole at events, celebrations and community occasions across the town over the coming year.

Half-term has officially arrived and there’s no shortage of family fun happening across Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch this week.

BCP Council has highlighted dozens of activities taking place, from creative workshops and storytelling sessions to outdoor adventures, live entertainment and sports activities.

Poole Museum is hosting storytelling tours, creative workshops and a special Dunkirk-themed family talk, while Upton Country Park has trails, live music, open days and family attractions taking place throughout the week.

Families can also enjoy Branksome Funfair, pond dipping sessions at Kingfisher Barn, football-themed activities at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf, craft sessions at Highcliffe Castle and plenty more across the area.

BH Live and local leisure centres are also running packed programmes of holiday clubs, inflatable pool sessions and sports camps throughout half-term.

Great news for AFC Bournemouth fans: BCP Council's Planning Committee has officially given the green light to redevelop and expand the Vitality Stadium. The timing couldn't be more extraordinary, coming just as the Cherries have qualified for the Europa League for the very first time in their 127-year history.

BCP Council says the redevelopment will bring real benefits to the area: new jobs, a boost to local hospitality, increased tourism and, crucially, more seats for supporters who currently have about as much chance of watching a home game as finding a parking space at Sandbanks yesterday.

The approval also comes with welcome improvements for the surrounding area, including upgraded crossings and bus stops, investment into Clarence Park Road play park, new benches, clearer signage and public art.

For a stadium that holds just over 11,000 — the smallest in the Premier League — the expansion can't come soon enough. Season tickets have sold out for three years running, and with European nights coming next season, demand is only going one way.

BCP Council has officially begun work on a brand new Local Plan, setting out how Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole will develop over the next 15 years, covering everything from new homes and jobs to transport links, schools, green spaces and community facilities.

The plan covers 2028 to 2044, with priorities including regenerating town centres and high streets, protecting important habitats and making sure infrastructure actually keeps pace with growth. Residents will get the chance to have their say when public consultations begin later this year.

Under new national planning rules, the entire plan must be completed within 30 months, which sounds reasonable until you notice the plan is supposed to come into effect in under 20 months.

And for those of us with long memories, it's worth noting that Poole is still waiting on meaningful progress from the current Local Plan — the 2018 Poole Town Plan, which promised regeneration of the town centre including the bus station, the former NatWest buildings opposite, and the old Power Station site next to the Twin Sails Bridge. Eight years on, those ambitions remain largely just that.

Still, here's hoping this one's different. We’ll let you know as soon as we hear details about the consultation.

A stunning new series of mosaic artworks has been installed along the sea wall between Mudeford Quay and Gundimore Beach.

The 14 mosaics celebrate local wildlife found around Christchurch and were created by local artist Matthew Byrom, also known as iffy.

Each artwork has been made using hand-cut ceramic pieces and features species including the Natterjack Toad, Shore Crab, Oystercatcher and Grey Heron.

Popular local festival Seafood & Sounds has been named winner of the Poole BID High Street Impact Award at the Poole Business Awards 2026.

The award recognises the festival’s positive impact on Poole’s town centre, hospitality businesses and community spirit.

The much-loved event has grown rapidly in recent years, bringing live music, seafood experiences, family entertainment and cultural events to venues across Poole and The Quay.

Organisers say preparations are already underway for an even bigger festival this September, with more live music, entertainment, food experiences and family fun across the town and The Quay.

Seafood & Sounds 2026 will take place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September.

Plans have been submitted to bring a large summer entertainment area back to Bournemouth Square this summer.

The proposal would see the pedestrianised square transformed with live music, food stalls, bars, family entertainment and summer-themed trading huts from early July until September.

Last year’s attraction featured daily live music, outdoor bars, arts and crafts, children’s entertainment and beach-themed shopping stalls.

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Construction work is now getting underway on a huge new flood defence project designed to protect Poole from rising sea levels over the next century.

The scheme will stretch from Poole Bridge to Hunger Hill and includes around 1.5km of new infrastructure along the eastern side of Holes Bay.

BCP Council says more than 570 properties currently face flood risk, with that figure potentially rising to over 2,000 in future if no action is taken.

Preparatory works have now started alongside the A350 and Holes Bay path, with temporary lane closures returning while work takes place.

The project has been carefully planned around the sensitive natural habitats in the area, including protected birds, fish and seahorses.

Drivers are being warned to expect disruption following the start of major gas replacement works on Poole Road.

The project, which began on Monday, has closed the eastbound carriageway between Pottery Junction and Cromer Road for around nine weeks while ageing gas pipes are replaced.

Westbound traffic remains open, while pedestrian and cycle access is still being maintained through the area.

Temporary parking restrictions are also in place and eastbound bus services are expected to face diversions and delays during the work.

Dorset Art Weeks is back from 23 May to 7 June, bringing hundreds of exhibitions, open studios and creative events to venues across Dorset.

Now held annually for the first time, the popular event gives people the chance to explore 294 venues across the county and meet the artists, makers and designers behind the work. From painters and printmakers to ceramicists, photographers and mixed media artists, Dorset Art Weeks showcases everything from traditional artwork to contemporary design.

One of the best parts of Dorset Art Weeks is the chance to visit artists in their own studios and creative spaces, while also discovering exhibitions in galleries, historic buildings and community venues across Dorset.

There are plenty of events taking place locally too, including exhibitions at Lighthouse in Poole, displays at Scaplen’s Court, and Poole Print Makers taking over GATHER in the Dolphin Centre with affordable original prints and live demonstrations.

The event is also a brilliant excuse to explore different parts of Dorset, from town centres and coastal locations to countryside workshops tucked away in villages and rural studios.

This year also sees the launch of a brand new Dorset Art Weeks website featuring an interactive map, making it much easier to discover exhibitions nearby or plan a creative day out further afield.

One of the headline features for 2026 is FLOW, a special new commission by artist Debbie Lee, taking place at Bere Marsh Farm near Shillingstone.

Whether you’re an art lover, looking for inspiration, or simply fancy discovering somewhere new this half term, Dorset Art Weeks offers a fantastic way to support local creatives while exploring the county.

Find out more and browse the interactive map at Dorset Art Weeks

Dorset Arts Week with Poole Print Makers, GATHER at The Dolphin, daily 10am-4pm until Sunday 7 June
Discover affordable original prints from more than 25 Dorset artists, plus daily drop-in printmaking sessions. Free entry.

The Gallery Upstairs presents ‘Into the Light’, Upton Country Park, daily 10am-4.30pm until Monday 8 June
Part of Dorset Art Weeks, this free exhibition from Poole & East Dorset Art Society explores the theme of light through a range of artistic styles.

Shake & Stir Vintage Armed Forces Weekender, Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne, Saturday and Sunday
A celebration of vintage culture, live music, dancing, vehicles and community spirit as part of Armed Forces Week festivities.

Internal Worlds, External Bodies, Lighthouse, Tue-Sat 10am-8pm until Friday 29 May
Free exhibition by Lisa Riot exploring healing, connection and the space between inner emotions and outward expression as part of Dorset Art Weeks.

A Portrait of Bloxworth, Lighthouse, daily 10am-8pm until Saturday 30 May
A visual social history exhibition featuring portraits, landscapes and mixed media work inspired by village life in Purbeck.

Ice Age Adventure Live, Lighthouse, various times
A family-friendly prehistoric theatre adventure packed with woolly mammoths, cavemen and interactive fun.

Bike Nights on Poole Quay, Poole Quay, from 5.30pm
Classic bikes, waterfront views, restaurants and a lively atmosphere return to Poole Quay for another popular summer evening event.

Chasing Leaves Live, The Portsmouth Hoy, Poole Quay, 8pm
Live music as part of the pub’s Bike Night Sessions. Booking recommended on 01202 673517.

Almost Nearly Famous, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 8.30pm-10.30pm
Live music night featuring the local band Almost Nearly Famous.

Job Fairs South West: Poole Jobs Fair, Lighthouse, 10.30am-2.30pm
Meet employers, recruitment teams and support services from across the region at this free jobs event. Find out more at Job Fairs South West

Courtney Marie Andrews, St Peter’s Church, Poole, doors 7pm
Critically acclaimed Americana and indie-folk singer-songwriter performs live in the atmospheric setting of St Peter’s. Book tickets via In The Nave at St Peter’s

Hidden Triangle Community DJ Sessions, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 7pm-11pm
Emerging DJs take over the decks for a community-led night of underground sounds and club culture.

Live and Unheard: May, Lighthouse, 8pm
Unsigned music showcase featuring Poole Vigilantes, Sirpico and Chasing Dolls.

Vinyl Night, The Portsmouth Hoy, Poole Quay, 8pm
Bring your favourite records or simply enjoy a full album played on a vintage turntable. Dinner served beforehand. Booking advised on 01202 673517.

Breakin’ Workshop with ILL-Abilities, Lighthouse, 7pm
An inspiring and inclusive breakdance workshop focused on creativity, resilience and self-expression.

Conker Unplugged, Conker Distillery & Taproom, Bournemouth, music from 7pm
Free stripped-back live music alongside cocktails and pizza in the Conker Taproom. Reserve a table at Conker Spirit Distillery

Snap Ambush Live, Sandbanks Brewery, 7pm
Party tunes, dancing and live entertainment to kickstart the weekend at Sandbanks Brewery.

Jazz Cafe Sandbanks featuring Liane Carroll, Jazz Cafe Sandbanks, 7pm
Britain’s acclaimed jazz vocalist performs alongside the Andy Urquhart Trio. Book at Jazz Cafe Sandbanks

The Music of Adele Candlelight Concert, St Peter’s Church, Poole, show 7.30pm-9.45pm
A candlelit tribute concert celebrating Adele’s greatest hits performed by Natalie Black. Book tickets at Xperience Live

Nia Nicholles Live, Dolce Vita Restaurant, 7.30pm
BBC Introducing award-winning singer-songwriter performs live at Dolce Vita.

Hollie Rogers, Lighthouse, 8pm
Cornish singer-songwriter Hollie Rogers brings her acclaimed live show to Poole.

Yard Party Live Music: Dirty Tricks, The Goods Yard, Broadstone, 8.30pm-11pm
Live music, food and spring vibes at another popular Yard Party evening.

Tudo Live, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9pm-11pm
Live music from Tudo at the Bermuda Triangle.

The Rheumatics, The Portsmouth Hoy, Poole Quay, 9pm
Early punk rock covers band live on Poole Quay.

The Great OutDorset, Upton Country Park, 10am-4pm
A free family festival celebrating Dorset wildlife and outdoor adventure with live music, BMX displays, arts, crafts, dog shows and more.

Breakin’ Convention 2026, Lighthouse, various times
International hip hop dance theatre festival featuring world-class performers, DJs, graffiti artists and local dance talent.

Swing Unlimited Dance Band: Let’s Swing at the Church, St Peter’s Church, Poole, doors 6.45pm
A lively evening of swing music, dancing and beginner-friendly dance lessons. Book tickets at In The Nave at St Peter’s

Ain’t Misbehavin’, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9pm-11pm
Live vintage-inspired music at the Bermuda Triangle Pub.

Live Acoustic Sunday Sessions, Rockwater Rooftop Terrace, 2pm-4pm
Relaxed live acoustic music, cocktails and seasonal dining overlooking the coast at Rockwater.

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