The Bournemouth One News Centre

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

• Council faces major SEND funding risk

  Ahead of the Chancellor's Autumn Budget tomorrow, BCP Council says debt linked to special educational needs support has reached one hundred and eighty three million pounds. The council leader has warned ministers that delays to national reforms are leaving local authorities under severe pressure. A recent national report found several billion pounds owed for services already delivered. The council wants urgent talks with ministers to secure clear reassurance about future plans.

• New plans submitted for M&S Poole food hall

  Marks and Spencer has submitted new plans to BCP Council for partial demolition of the former Homebase site on Poole Road in Poole. The proposal, which is partly retrospective, forms part of wider plans to convert the vacant building into a new Foodhall, and a separate bulky goods store. Public consultation runs until mid-December, with all related applications expected to be decided by planning officers rather than a committee.

• Dorset seeks people to foster this year

  Dorset Council has launched a Christmas campaign to encourage more people to become foster carers for children who need safe and stable homes. The campaign centres on a moving video showing a child wishing for safety and belonging at Christmas. Councillor Clare Sutton says the greatest gift is a secure home and hopes residents will consider fostering in the new year. Foster carer Chris Smart says the support available helps carers change young lives with stability and care.

• Friends of Victoria Hospital mark anniversary

  The Friends of Victoria Hospital in Wimborne are marking ninety years of supporting patients, staff and the wider community. The group has helped fund major improvements at the hospital, including most of its capital projects over the past quarter century. Its purchase of nearby land will allow a larger car park and future expansion as local healthcare demand rises. A short film has been released to show how the partnership between the Friends and the NHS continues to benefit residents.

• More funding for Bournemouth universities

  More than five point six million pounds is being invested in Bournemouth’s universities to expand facilities and tackle local skills shortages. Bournemouth University will create a new cyber centre, Arts University Bournemouth will upgrade Bournemouth Film School, and Health Sciences University will build advanced teaching clinics. Jessica Toale says the projects will help develop the skilled workforce local employers need. The investment comes from the government’s Strategic Priorities Grant and supports sectors including health care and advanced technology.