Hello Poole!

In this week’s issue:

• Poole Town Council

• Poole Pirates Race for Glory

• A picture of the missing wooden animal

• Community Project Funding

• Huge investment across BCP

• Lush opens a new hair salon

• and our events guide has something for every day this week, from fireworks and Halloween fun to live music, comedy and delicious dining experiences.

We’d like to take the opportunity to say a huge thank you for the incredible feedback we receive each week about PooleNow. We want to grow to be the most trusted source of information for people that care deeply about our town, but we can only do that with your help. Spread the word about PooleNow in any way you can! Forward us to friends, follow us on social media and keep sending us your news, events, information and feedback.

“It’s a fantastic way to find out what’s on, where and when. Keep it up, and thank you” - PooleNow reader

If you ever want to get in touch, just hit reply!

P.S. As a special treat to all our readers (except those with very young children - sorry!) you can all have an extra hour in bed on Sunday as the clocks go back. Enjoy!

PooleNow is proudly sponsored by Bournemouth One radio station – and right now you can bag half-price vouchers for local restaurants, gyms and more at vouchers.bournemouthone.com

🗳️ New town councils approved for Poole, Broadstone and Bournemouth

New town councils are coming to Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone after a tense debate at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council. This follows our previous Town Council Special Edition, where councillors shared their views, and our poll showed 69% of readers supported a Poole Town Council.

The proposals were passed despite opposition from MPs and councillors from multiple parties, who raised concerns about cost, bureaucracy, and the lack of prior resident consultation. Nearly 4,000 people signed a petition calling for a delay until 2027, though it could not formally halt the decision.

Lib Dem councillors argued the new councils would restore “civic pride and identity” and give communities more control over local services. Poole’s new council will have 15 wards and 21 councillors, taking effect from April 2026, with elections in May.

Whether you support or oppose the plan, it’s now happening and getting involved early is key. The new councillors will be able to entirely shape how the new council is set up, how it operates and what responsibilities it takes on.

We’re running a survey under this article to ask readers what priorities they think the new council should focus on. Make your voice heard and help shape Poole’s future!

🏁 Poole Pirates race to thrilling championship finish

The Poole ‘Wessex Marine’ Pirates retained their SGB Cab Direct Championship title after a dramatic final, with the title race going to a superheat. The team now heads to Poole for the second leg of the BSN Series Final, hunting a back-to-back treble after a narrow defeat in the first leg. Good luck!
Wednesday 22nd October, Poole Stadium, from 7:30pm

💰 £1.4 million funding boost for community projects

BCP Council has opened applications for the seventh round of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Neighbourhood Portion Funding. Projects can range from play area refurbishments and public art to environmental improvements and local facilities.

Previous successful projects include enhancements at Ashley Cross Green and playground improvements in Moordown Recreation Ground and Springbourne Gardens. Applications close on 15 December 2025.

🔧 Twin Sails Bridge repairs update

Preparations are underway for essential repairs to Twin Sails Bridge. Parts have now been procured, with final specialist materials expected in December. Long-term reliability improvements, funded with £6 million from the Community Infrastructure Levy, are also progressing alongside these immediate repairs.

🏆 Life-changing foster carers celebrated at awards ceremony

The remarkable dedication of foster carers across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole was recognised at the 2025 Fostering and Supported Lodgings Awards. More than 200 households care for children in the area, and the awards celebrated their impact on young lives.

Pat and Dave Gubb received the Alison Elms Legacy Award, having cared for around 40 children since 2012. Council leaders praised foster carers as “underrated heroes” whose work changes lives.

BCP Council continues to encourage residents to consider fostering, with online information sessions available for those interested in joining this rewarding community.

Visit bcpfostering.co.uk

💷 Over £750 million investment across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Businesses are showing confidence in the area, with more than £750 million being invested across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Projects range from healthcare improvements to transport links, jobs creation, and revitalised green spaces.

Highlights include £24 million from BCP Council for education expansion in Bearwood and Merley, Poole town centre flood defence schemes, and road improvements across the area. JPMorganChase plans a £350 million investment in Bournemouth, while Poole Museum is reopening after a multi-million pound redevelopment, supported by major national funds.

Bournemouth Airport is undergoing a terminal expansion and a new bus service, and local developers are bringing new housing projects, including a 110-home development at Hillbourne near Poole. From road resurfacing to £3.9 million revitalisation of play areas, the investment is creating lasting benefits for residents.

💇 Lush HairLab Poole opens with sustainable, chemical-free haircare

Lush HairLab has opened its second standalone salon in Poole, offering eco-friendly haircare using chemical-free products handmade at the local Lush HQ. The salon provides inclusive services such as quieter hours, specialist workshops, and mirrorless experiences for those who prefer them.

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🏡 PooleNow Property Pick

Want to know what £875,000 will get you in the brand new Oakwood Park development in Merley? Find out here 👉 View the property

🐦 Poole Harbour Young Birders Club returns for another year

The Young Birders Club is back, offering free monthly birding events for 13–18-year-olds. Supported by the Cameron Bespolka Trust, the program includes bird ID walks, ringing demos, wildlife cruises, and talks from conservationists. Over 145 young people have already participated, and registration is open for new members.

3 Local stories you might have missed

1. Vacant sites to be reviewed for housing – Bournemouth One

2. BCP Council to pay £21k to families over SEND failures - BBC News

3. BCP Park and Ride plans move forward – Bournemouth One

🐍Wooden Animals

Last week’s quiz focused on the wooden animals that used to live in the Arndale Dolphin Centre, a huge number of you wanted to know what the fourth animal was and what happened to it. Unfortunately the snake was left outside in an open service area and its condition deteriorated until it had to be disposed of. Do you remember it?

“When I was on work experience at Poole Library in 2003 I had to access their storage space (where the Foundry is now) and I couldn't believe my eyes to discover the wooden animals were being stored in there!” - PooleNow reader

If you’d like to know more about the wonderful wooden sculptures created by Peter Hand, please visit The Play Sculptures of Peter Hand.

What’s on this week in (and around) Poole

Multiple Days

Bunty the Bone Dog's Halloween Adventure Trail – Sat 25 Oct–Sun 2 Nov, 10am–3:30pm
Upton Country Park. £4.50 per trail map. Fancy dress encouraged.

We Rise Exhibition, Lighthouse Poole
Sat 20 Sept – Sat 1 Nov
A celebration of global majority artists from the south coast, presented by Boscombe Radicle Arts Collective.

Meet Rembrandt: Slow Looking Experience, Kingston Lacy
12 Sept – 16 Nov
Take time with Rembrandt’s Self-portrait in a Feathered Bonnet in an intimate, slow-looking setting.

Tuesday

The Good Quiz, The Goods Yard
Put on your thinking caps, gather your teammates and take part in the no pen, no paper, NO CHEATING, speed quiz!

Wednesday

Poole Pirates v Redcar Bears | BSN Final, Poole Stadium, from 7:30pm
Don’t miss the championship showdown as the Poole Pirates race for glory — kids under 11 go free!

Saurus, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 8:30–10:30pm
Kick back with an evening of upbeat live tunes in the heart of Ashley Cross.

Eddie Izzard – Hamlet, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm, £40.70
The comedy genius takes on Shakespeare in a daring new adaptation — a must-see performance.

Purbeck Film Festival: No Other Land (Cert 15), Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm, £11.50
Explore untold stories through this gripping documentary as part of the festival.

Thursday

Ocean Film Festival, Lighthouse Theatre, 7:30–10:15pm
A cinematic celebration of ocean adventures and conservation — thrilling visuals for all ages.

Crab Linguine Workshop, Rick Stein’s, Sandbanks, 6–7pm
Learn to master this seafood classic with top tips from Rick Stein’s chefs.

Motown Experience with Ashya Roberts, DaVinci’s, 7:30pm
Feel the rhythm with an unforgettable evening of Motown hits and soulful tunes.

Friday

Trafalgar Dinner in aid of Poole Lifeboat Station, The Portsmouth Hoy, 6:30pm
Dine in style while supporting our local lifeboat heroes — seats are limited.

Loose Chippings, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9–11pm
Rock out with this energetic local band and enjoy a lively Friday night.

Sauna & Supper, Little Pickle, Walford Mill, 5–7pm
Relax, unwind and enjoy a healthy dinner in a soothing sauna atmosphere.

Saturday

Poole Parkrun Halloween Fancy Dress Parkrun, Poole Park, 9am
Get active and join the fun — costumes encouraged for a festive twist on your usual run.

Undergraduate Open Day, Bournemouth University, all day
Discover courses, meet lecturers, and explore campus facilities — ideal for prospective students.

Broadstone’s Best Firework Display, Broadstone Middle School, 5pm gates, 7:30pm fireworks
A spectacular community display with food stalls and entertainment for all the family.

Murder in the Manor, Cobbs Bar and Kitchen, 7pm
Step into a thrilling whodunit dinner event, perfect for an immersive Saturday night.

Purbeck Film Festival: Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat (12A), Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A gripping documentary on music, politics, and revolution — part of the festival lineup.

Uncanny: Fear of the Dark, Lighthouse Poole, 7:45pm
A chilling theatre experience for fans of horror and suspense.

Coastal Comedy October, Lighthouse Poole, 8pm
Stand-up comedy night featuring the best local and national talent.

Tim Young Live, The Tap & Grape, Broadstone, 8:30pm
An evening of acoustic covers.

Tudo, Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9–11pm
Catch the band’s vibrant sounds in a cosy pub setting.

Sunday

Bake Sauna – Pop-up Harbour Sauna
Sun 28 September, Hamworthy Park
A wood-fired sauna experience by the harbour with optional cold plunge and swims at high tide.
Take the plunge!

Pub Quiz Night – Bermuda Triangle Pub, 7.30–10.30pm
£3 entry includes quiz and bar snacks. Friendly fun to start the week.

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That’s it! See you next week!