Concerns have been raised that the proposed Wessex mayoral authority may not reflect the urban needs of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole as powers move from Whitehall. A BCP councillor says the proposed Wessex deal needs closer scrutiny before it progresses. The proposed mayoral authority would cover Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire, with powers and funding moved from Whitehall under the plan being considered. Councillor Bobbie Dove, deputy leader of the BCP Conservative group, said the conurbation has pressures which differ from rural councils, includi
A BCP councillor says the proposed Wessex deal needs closer scrutiny before it progresses.
The proposed mayoral authority would cover Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire, with powers and funding moved from Whitehall under the plan being considered.
Councillor Bobbie Dove, deputy leader of the BCP Conservative group, said the conurbation has pressures which differ from rural councils, including busy town centres, major transport links and a visitor economy with hotels, conferences, entertainment and nightlife.
She described BCP as “an economic hub and urban coastal area”, citing Poole’s commercial port, maritime and engineering firms, digital industries, financial services, universities and an international airport as examples.
Councillor Dove said BCP’s priorities should include helping firms reach markets, attracting investment and enabling residents to access jobs, while making sure policing, housing and transport needs are reflected in decisions.
She said warnings had been overlooked and asked how BCP needs would influence spending, adding that residents deserve evidence the choice will improve their prospects and protect local priorities in future.
