The Bournemouth One News Centre

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

• Greens urge use of empty buildings in BCP

  The BCP Green Party is urging the council to look at using empty council buildings as emergency housing. They say homelessness is rising while some publicly owned properties remain unused or are being sold. The group believes buildings that are safe and suitable should be considered before redevelopment takes place. The call comes as a public consultation continues on the draft BCP Homelessness Strategy twenty twenty six to twenty thirty one, which runs until February.

• Property owners urged to check buildings

  Property owners next to public highways in Dorset are being urged to check and maintain their buildings. Dorset Council says falling debris has led to recent road and pavement closures, causing disruption that could have been avoided. The authority says safety comes first and action is taken when structures become dangerous. Owners are reminded they are responsible for repairs and any related costs.

• Water meters could cut bills for homes

  Bournemouth Water says installing a water meter could help some households better manage their bills and water use. The company says most customers pay less after switching because they only pay for what they use and can spot waste more easily. Meters are fitted free for eligible customers, including many tenants, with protection in place if bills rise. Customers unable to have a meter can be offered an assessed charge instead.

• Local fireworks issue raised in Parliament

  Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes is urging tougher rules on fireworks after hundreds of local residents backed parliamentary petitions. He told MPs he has heard from pet owners, veterans and pensioners affected by loud and unpredictable displays. Concerns include distress to animals and people living with post traumatic stress. He wants existing laws enforced and new limits considered on noise, timing and duration.

• Man dies after Verwood road collision

  A man injured in a three vehicle collision on Ringwood Road in Verwood last month has died in hospital. The crash involved a Mini, a Vauxhall and a BMW near Saint Stephen’s Lane during the early evening. A woman in her fifties was treated for minor injuries and the BMW driver was not hurt. Police say the family has been informed and officers are continuing enquiries. Anyone with information or dashcam footage is being asked to contact Dorset Police.