It's a big week. England face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday evening, and we have a full guide to where you can watch it across Poole. Elsewhere, a new 15-year transport strategy has been published that includes some proposals residents have been asking about for years. We also have a brilliant story about a local school's football team who have just been crowned national champions. Plus events, local news and everything happening across Poole this week.

Dive in and enjoy!

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A new 15-year transport strategy from BCP Council and Dorset Council sets out an ambitious vision for how residents travel across Poole and beyond up to 2041. It covers everything from bus improvements and cycling routes to some genuinely surprising proposals. Not everything is funded yet, but here are the ideas most likely to matter to Poole residents.

Could Poole station move and finally fix the town centre problem?

The most striking proposal in the entire document is the potential relocation of Poole railway station to the heart of the town centre. When we asked PooleNow readers what they wanted to see in the new Local Plan, improving the bus station came up repeatedly as a huge priority. Many of you also called for the bus and train stations to be merged, so the proposal in this strategy will resonate with a lot of you.

The vision is to redevelop the current bus station site and create a combined transport interchange that reconnects the high street with the rest of the town. Currently our High Street is bisected by the railway line and we have to rely on the barriers being up or the footbridge, which currently creates a real problem for anyone with mobility difficulties, young families with pushchairs, or people simply wanting a convenient walk into town.

The plan describes this as a long-term aspiration rather than a funded commitment, but it is an idea that would make a huge difference to our town centre.

The Port of Poole, the bridges and the buses

The strategy identifies the Port of Poole as a strategic economic asset and proposes reopening the Hamworthy Branch Line to freight traffic, which could reduce heavy vehicle movements on local roads. The Twin Sails Bridge is earmarked for a major refurbishment to improve reliability on a crossing that carries around 10,000 journeys every day.

On buses, the strategy commits to better reliability, improved interchanges and upgraded facilities, including the concept of mobility hubs where bus, cycle hire, car clubs and EV charging all sit in one place.

The plan also includes more 20mph zones, expanded cycling and walking routes, and a potential workplace parking levy that would charge employers for parking spaces and reinvest the income into public transport. That last idea is likely to divide opinion sharply between those who see it as a sensible way to fund better buses and those concerned about additional costs on local businesses.

The big caveat

Many of these proposals depend on funding that has not yet been secured. The strategy is honest about that. The question for Poole residents is not just what is in the plan, but which parts actually get built. On that, we will all be watching closely.

What do you think should be the biggest priority?

There was disappointment this week after Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole missed out on a place on the shortlist for UK Town of Culture 2028. However, council leaders and cultural organisations say the bid has already achieved something important by bringing together artists, venues, charities and communities from across the three towns.

The bid showcased the area's thriving creative scene and helped build new partnerships that organisers are determined to keep growing. From the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Pavilion Dance South West to local arts organisations, everyone involved has pledged to continue working together to strengthen culture across the region.

One of Poole's biggest free festivals is looking for volunteers ahead of its return this September.

Seafood & Sounds takes place across Poole Quay, the Old Town and the town centre on 12 and 13 September, bringing together live music, family entertainment, local seafood and community activities.

Organisers are looking for friendly volunteers to welcome visitors, support activities and help the event run smoothly. No previous experience is needed and full training will be provided.

Last year's volunteers described the experience as rewarding, confidence building and a brilliant way to meet new people. If you've ever wanted to get involved behind the scenes at one of Poole's biggest events, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Anyone interested can register by emailing [email protected]

There's another tasty new reason to visit The Dolphin Centre.

Sumo Sushi has officially opened inside Street Food, becoming the first of three exciting new food businesses arriving this summer.

The menu features build your own sushi boxes, allowing customers to mix and match their favourite rolls, alongside poke bowls, Japanese street food, hot rice bowls and delicious starters. You can order to collect on their website or via UberEats and Deliveroo.

Old Town Poole, Grade II Listed, brilliant basement! 👉 View the property

A huge congratulations to the Year 10 girls football team at Lytchett Minster School, who have been crowned English Schools' Football Association Under 15 National Champions.

After finding themselves two goals behind in the final, the team showed incredible determination to fight back before holding their nerve to win on penalties. It capped off an outstanding season in which they lifted five trophies! Congratulations to everyone involved on an incredible season.

Time is running out to have your say on the future of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

BCP Council's Local Plan consultation closes in just two weeks and will help shape where new homes, jobs, transport improvements and community facilities are developed between 2028 and 2043.

This early consultation is asking residents what issues should be included in the plan and how the council should engage with local communities throughout the process.

If you'd like your views to help shape the future of the area, now is the time to get involved before the consultation closes.

Football fever is building as England prepare to face Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semi final on Wednesday evening with an 8pm kick off.

Several venues across Poole and the surrounding area have announced they will be showing the match live:

The Ox Pub & Rooms will once again be showing the game with tables available on a first come, first served basis, so arriving early is recommended.

Sweet Home Inn promises one of Dorset's biggest outdoor screens, complete with an outdoor bar, pizzas and a lively atmosphere for fans.

The Hamworthy Club is encouraging supporters to book ahead, while The Oakdale Club will also be screening the match live.

Fans can also watch at The Cow, The Bricklayers or The Britannia in Ashley Cross, The The Quay, Jolly Sailor and The George Hotel in Poole and The Red Lion in Hamworthy.

For those wanting a true fan park experience, O2 Academy Bournemouth will be hosting one of Europe's biggest football fan parks with the match shown on Bournemouth's largest indoor screen, alongside food, drinks and hundreds of fellow England supporters.

Personally, I’ll be pacing around my own living room hoping for a result that will banish my childhood trauma from France ‘98.

I imagine all of these venues will be also be showing the Third Place Play off on Saturday and the World Cup Final on Sunday at 8pm - but which one will feature England?

Life in Full Colour: The Art of Jason Wilsher-Mills, Poole Museum, Tuesday 14 July to Sunday 19 July
Step into a spectacular world of colour, creativity and storytelling with this immersive exhibition featuring sculptures, inflatables, digital artworks and new pieces inspired by Poole's maritime heritage.

Canford Heath Art Society Exhibition, The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, Daily 10:00am to 4:00pm until Monday 20 July
Browse a wonderful exhibition of paintings and artwork by talented local artists. Free admission and fully accessible via stairs or lift.

Poole Quay Bike Night, Poole Quay, From 5:30pm
Enjoy an evening of motorcycles, great food, pubs and a fantastic atmosphere along Poole Quay as Bike Night returns.

S Bomb Bike Night, S Bomb Vintage Workshop, 6:00pm onwards
A relaxed evening of bikes, drinks and good company by the harbour. Free entry with food truck and full bar available.

England V Argentina, World Cup Semi-Final, 8pm KO
See article above for various venues hosting screenings of the most important match so far!

Nicole McNally Live, Nicholas James Café & Bar, 6:30pm to 8:45pm
Enjoy an evening of soulful vocals, popular covers and live music in a relaxed setting.

The Acoustic Connection Live Showcase, The Cow, Ashley Cross, From 7:00pm
Support local musicians at this free monthly live music showcase featuring some of the area's finest performers.

Live Music: Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 8:30pm to 10:30pm
Enjoy an evening of live blues music at the popular Ashley Cross venue.

Summer Fayre, Dorset House, Hamworthy, 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Enjoy a World Cup themed afternoon featuring football activities with AFC Bournemouth staff, live music, stalls and Bert's Burger Bar. Find out more and book at: https://www.care-south.co.uk/event/?id=37

The Great British Film Orchestra: The Music of James Bond, St Peter's Church, Poole, Doors 6:00pm, Show 6:30pm
Experience iconic James Bond themes performed live by a chamber orchestra in the beautiful surroundings of St Peter's Church.

MØSS Live, S Bomb Vintage Workshop, From 6:00pm
Alternative folk artist MØSS performs live with the bar open from 6pm. Tickets available via Skiddle.

Tribute to the 70s & 80s Cruise, Coastal Cruises, Poole Quay, From 7:00pm
Cruise around Poole Harbour with live entertainment celebrating the biggest hits of the 70s and 80s, including music from Grease. Book your place via Coastal Cruises.

Car Night: Super Cars & Subarus, Poole Quay, From 6:00pm
See an impressive collection of supercars and Subarus lining Poole Quay for another popular themed car evening.

Nikita Kuzmin: Supernova, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
Strictly Come Dancing star Nikita Kuzmin brings his spectacular new dance production to Poole.

Live Music: Kingsmen Live Band, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Enjoy live music from Kingsmen at the Bermuda Triangle in Ashley Cross.

Lilliput Sailing Club 70th Annual Regatta, Lilliput Sailing Club, Throughout the day
The first day of the annual regatta features harbour racing, BBQ and children's activities.

Christ Church Creekmoor Summer Fayre, Christ Church Creekmoor, 10:00am to 1:00pm
A free community event with stalls, children's crafts, food and plenty of family fun.

All Saints' Church Summer Fete, All Saints' Church, Branksome, 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Inflatables, games, BBQ, cakes, brass band, stalls and family entertainment. Free entry.

Summer Fete, Longfleet Baptist Church, 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Free family afternoon with games, circus skills, face painting, tea, cake, live music and more.

Exhibition on Screen: David Hockney at the Royal Academy of Arts, Lighthouse Poole, 3:00pm
A fascinating documentary exploring the life and work of one of Britain's best-loved artists.

JenkinsFest, Jenkins & Sons, From 4:00pm
An afternoon and evening of live music, £10 pizzas, craft ales and a great summer atmosphere.

S Bomb Nashville Night, S Bomb Vintage Workshop, 6:00pm onwards
Live country music from Harry Budd, DJ Cliff Knows Country, line dancing, food truck and free entry.

Murder Mystery Cruise, Coastal Cruises, Poole Quay, 6:30pm
Solve a thrilling murder mystery while enjoying a three-course meal and a cruise around Poole Harbour. Book via Coastal Cruises.

Steve Steinman's Anything for Love, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A spectacular celebration of the music of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman.

Hot Topic Band Live, Kings Head, From 8:00pm
Celebrate the reopening weekend of the Kings Head with an evening of classic live music.

Lilliput Sailing Club 70th Annual Regatta, Lilliput Sailing Club, Throughout the day
The second day of the annual regatta features harbour racing, BBQ, children's activities and prize giving at 5pm.

World Cup Final, Multiple Venues, 8pm
See World Cup article above for venues that will be showing the World Cup Final

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