There’s plenty happening across the area this week, starting with the release of candidates for the new Town Council elections. With voting day fast approaching, we’ve got everything you need to know, including how to check the list and make sure you’re registered.

We’re also looking ahead to planned closures on Poole Bridge, welcoming a brand new restaurant to Alum Chine, and sharing the latest from Poole Harbour Festival as it gears up for a huge 10th anniversary.

Add in a returning writing festival, a standout charity ride, and lots more local updates, and there’s plenty to catch up on in this week’s issue.

Enjoy!

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The list of candidates standing in the upcoming Town Council elections has now been released, with almost 200 people putting themselves forward across Poole, Broadstone and Bournemouth.

The move comes after a Community Governance Review, with BCP councillors voting in favour of creating these new councils last October. While consultation feedback showed mixed views, the decision means voters will head to the polls on Thursday 7 May to elect their local representatives.

You can view the full list of candidates here

If you’re not yet registered to vote, you’ll need to do so by Monday 20 April. It only takes a few minutes online, and you can also apply for postal or proxy voting if needed.

As a quick note, I’ll be standing as an independent candidate in the Oakdale and South East Creekmoor ward. However, PooleNow will remain a non-political platform. We won’t be using this newsletter to promote any individual candidate, including myself.

Instead, we’ll be inviting all candidates to submit a short 600-character statement to be published on the PooleNow website. This will give every candidate an equal opportunity to share their message and help readers make an informed decision.

If you’re standing, you can submit your statement here.

Our aim, as always, is to stay balanced, fair and focused on what matters to Poole.

If you regularly travel across Poole Lifting Bridge, you’ll want to plan ahead.

The bridge is set to close completely from 9:30am on Monday 27 April until 6pm on Friday 1 May for planned maintenance and resurfacing works.

During this time, there will be no access for vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists, so diversions will be in place (via the Twin Sails Bridge) and journeys may take a little longer.

The works will include routine maintenance as well as waterproofing and resurfacing on the approach roads, which means timings could be affected by the weather.

Writers, creatives and curious minds are in for a treat as the Bournemouth Writing Festival returns from 24 to 26 April.

Now in its fourth year, the festival brings together more than 100 events across venues including Bournemouth Pavilion, the Russell-Cotes Museum, Patch and even the beach.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or already working on your next big idea. Expect workshops, talks, panel discussions and even one-to-one sessions with literary agents.

Many events are free, with highlights including writing sessions on the beach, a new Poetry Marquee and a range of activities for children and families.

There are also some standout masterclasses this year, including sessions with literary agent Saskia Leach and bestselling Dorset author Rachel McLean.

Find out more and book tickets here: https://www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk/

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride returns to Poole on Sunday 17 May, with around 500 riders expected to take part in support of men’s mental health and prostate cancer research.

Starting from Poole Quay at 10am, riders dressed in their finest will take to the roads on classic and vintage-style motorcycles, heading through Sandbanks, Bournemouth and Christchurch before finishing at Sammy Miller’s Motorcycle Museum.

If you’re not riding, it’s still well worth heading down early. Many local businesses will be open from around 7:30am, making it the perfect excuse for a breakfast stop before the event gets underway.

A brand new restaurant has opened its doors on Alum Chine beach, bringing a fresh new place to eat, drink and relax by the sea.

As previously reported, the former Vesuvio site has been transformed into Alum Beach Hut, led by local hospitality owner Ed Turner.

The idea is simple: a relaxed, welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Whether you fancy a proper sit-down meal, a coffee in the sun, or just somewhere comfortable to catch up with friends, this new venue is designed to fit right into its surroundings.

On the menu, you’ll find a mix of seafood, grilled dishes, pizzas, salads and family-friendly options, plus drinks ranging from cocktails to great coffee. There are even treats for dogs too.

A new leadership programme designed to support first-time managers has launched in Poole.

Created by local firm Evolve, the “Accidental Managers Programme” is aimed at people who have stepped into management roles without formal training, something many businesses will recognise.

The course runs over six sessions and covers key areas like leadership, communication, team performance and handling difficult conversations, all with practical tools that can be used straight away.

The first course starts on 12 May, with sessions held at Evolve’s Poole townhouse.

Are you a business in the local area? Do you want to reach out to a highly engaged local community? Want to support us so that we can keep running our free local newsletter? Get in touch!

This stunning property is worth looking at just to admire the artwork on the walls 👉 View the property

Poole Harbour Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary this summer and the lineup is huge.

Headlining this milestone year are Kaiser Chiefs, joined by a packed bill including Heather Small, East 17, Scouting For Girls and The Fratellis.

Across the weekend at Baiter Park from 31 July to 2 August, you can also expect top DJs, tribute acts, local bands and plenty for families, from kids’ entertainment to arts and crafts.

Find out more at: www.pooleharbourfestival.com

A brand new theatre production is set to premiere at Lighthouse this week.

“Lessons From Teacher x” runs on 15 and 16 April, bringing a gripping romcom-thriller to the stage from local company Dorsetborn.

Starring Barbara Smith and directed by Rohan Gotobed, the show explores themes of love, control and hidden secrets, all set within the world of a secondary school teacher with more going on than meets the eye.

There’s also a post-show Q&A on the Thursday, giving audiences the chance to hear more from the team behind the production.

One of the UK’s biggest comedians is heading to Poole for a special charity event.

Michael McIntyre will perform at Lighthouse on Sunday 10 May, bringing his greatest hits and new material to the stage in aid of Julia’s House.

The local children’s hospice provides vital care and support for families across the area, making this a brilliant night out for a very good cause.

Lessons from Teacher x, Lighthouse Poole, Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 April, 8:00pm
A sharp and engaging theatre production exploring modern relationships and secrets.

My First Ballet: Cinderella, Lighthouse Poole, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April, 11:00am and 2:30pm
A beautifully adapted ballet designed especially for younger audiences.

Scene Together Exhibition, The Gallery Upstairs at Upton Country Park, Thursday 16 to Tuesday 21 April, 10:00am–4:00pm
A free exhibition celebrating local artists, with a wide range of work on display and for sale.

Bike Night on Poole Quay, Poole Quay, from 5:30pm
A relaxed family-friendly evening by the water with bikes on display, great food and plenty of places to grab a drink as the sun goes down.

Spring Beauty & Wellness Edit, Rockwater Roof Terrace, 6:30pm–9:30pm
An evening of expert insight, live demos and wellness advice, plus Q&A sessions, treatments, and a chance to meet industry professionals.

BSO: Harmony of Balance, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
An evocative orchestral programme featuring works by Howard, Mozart and Dvořák, exploring themes of nature, balance and emotion.

Lessons from Teacher x, Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
A bold and thought-provoking theatre performance exploring relationships, secrets and modern life.

Kingsmen (Live Music), Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 8:30pm–10:30pm
Live music in a lively pub setting with this energetic local band.

Scene Together Exhibition, The Gallery Upstairs at Upton Country Park, 10:00am–4:00pm
A joint exhibition featuring local artists, showcasing a range of work with free entry. Runs daily until Tuesday.

Psychology of Serial Killers, Lighthouse Poole, 7:45pm
Join a forensic psychology expert for an in-depth and fascinating talk exploring different types of serial offenders.

Lessons from Teacher x, Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
Final chance to catch this compelling and contemporary theatre production.

John Smith (Live Music), Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
Acclaimed British folk guitarist performs live, known for his intricate style and powerful songwriting.

Groove Rush (Live Music), Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9:00pm–11:00pm
High-energy live set to kick off the weekend.

My First Ballet: Cinderella, Lighthouse Poole, 11:00am and 2:30pm
A magical introduction to ballet for children, with storytelling, music and a shortened version of the classic tale.

Record Store Day, Boiler Room Records, Poole Old Town, from 11:00am
Celebrate independent record shops with live music, exclusive releases and a great atmosphere. Find out more at recordstoreday.co.uk

Lucian Freud Printmaking Talk, Poole Museum, from 11:00am
A fascinating behind-the-scenes talk exploring the creative process of one of Britain’s greatest artists.

DCC Dorset Comics & Collectibles, Canford Heath Community Centre, 11:30am–3:30pm
A fun-filled event for fans of comics and collectibles, with stalls, cosplay and plenty to explore.

Questa Voce: Requiem Pandemus, St Peter’s Church Poole, from 7:00pm
A powerful live performance featuring choir, orchestra and well-known requiem works. Book via event organisers

Amy Mason: Behold!, Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
A witty and offbeat comedy show exploring digital life, connection and modern relationships.

80s Night, Jenkins & Sons, Penn Hill, from 7:00pm
A night of classic 80s tunes, live music, happy hour and pizzas. Book your table with the venue

Bone Idol (Live Music), Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 9:00pm–11:00pm
Live band bringing a mix of crowd-pleasing tracks.

Breakin Convention Hip Hop Taster Day, GATHER Poole, 10:00am–4:00pm
A free family-friendly day of dance, art and music workshops inspired by hip hop culture.

My First Ballet: Cinderella, Lighthouse Poole, 11:00am and 2:30pm
Another chance to enjoy this family-friendly ballet experience.

Love Actually Wedding Fayre, Lighthouse Poole, 11:00am–2:00pm
Meet local wedding suppliers and gather inspiration for your big day. Free entry, just turn up.

Bex & The City (Live Music), Bermuda Triangle Pub, Ashley Cross, 4:00pm–6:00pm
Easy-going Sunday live music session.

Rockwater Quiz Night, Rockwater Roof Terrace, 7:00pm–9:00pm
Test your knowledge with a fun quiz night, prizes to be won and food available. Book your table with the venue

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