The Bournemouth One News Centre

All the news you need for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole with travel information and national headlines.

• WW2 bunker reborn as bat sanctuary

  A World War Two pillbox in Muddyfud Wood has been transformed into a new home for bats. BCP Council worked with local ecologist Colin Morris to turn the wartime structure into a safe hibernation space for protected species. The project, paid for by developer contributions, helps preserve local wildlife and protect the site’s historic character. Councillor Andy Hadley says it’s a clever way to protect heritage and nature at the same time.

• Athelstan Arms reopens after £420k revamp

  The Athelstan Arms on Cranleigh Road in Bournemouth has reopened following a four hundred and 20 thousand pounds refit. Local operator Matt England will welcome customers with a Halloween party featuring music and themed drinks. The refurbished pub now includes a larger beer garden, new sports zone, and updated interior, with plans to support local charities and host regular community events.

• Bournemouth retains Purple Flag award

  Bournemouth Town Centre has kept its Purple Flag status for the fifteenth year. The award, run by the Association of Town and City Management, highlights excellence in safety, variety and management between five in the evening and five in the morning. It follows strong partnership work between the Town Centre Bid, BCP Council, Dorset Police, Townwatch and others, aiming for Bournemouth to be a welcoming and well-managed destination for evenings out.

• Poole man in critical condition after crash

  A man from Poole is in a critical condition after a collision on Dorset Way yesterday. Police say it involved a blue Kawasaki motorbike and a red Jeep Avenger near the Old Wareham Road roundabout, and the road was closed while emergency services worked at the scene. Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam to get in touch, especially those who saw the vehicles beforehand. Information can be given to Dorset Police quoting the relevant reference or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

• Campaign continues for Throop bus service

  Bournemouth MP Tom Hayes has joined calls to reinstate a bus service for Throop Village, which lost its route in twenty eighteen. More than nine hundred residents have signed a petition asking for a limited service to return, saying it’s vital for access to shops and medical appointments. At a public meeting, campaigners praised the MP for bringing villagers, MoreBus and BCP Council together to discuss options and reduce isolation.