BCP Council’s Plan September 2019

Table of Contents

1. Methodology ............................................................................................................................ 1

Council plan survey ....................................................................................................................... 1

Stakeholder Events ....................................................................................................................... 1

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Breakfast .................................................. 1

Youth Forum ................................................................................................................................. 1

Staff Engagement ......................................................................................................................... 1

DOTs Disability ............................................................................................................................. 1

Go Forum ...................................................................................................................................... 1

2. Communications ...................................................................................................................... 2

3. Council Plan engagement summary ...................................................................................... 2

Survey analysis ........................................................................................................................... 2

Importance of priorities .............................................................................................................. 2

Youth Forum ................................................................................................................................ 3

Stakeholder events ..................................................................................................................... 3

Go Forum ..................................................................................................................................... 3

Staff Panel ................................................................................................................................... 3

Written responses ....................................................................................................................... 4

DOTs Disability ............................................................................................................................ 4

Conclusion .................................................................................................................................. 5

4. Council Plan survey responses .............................................................................................. 6

Importance of priorities .................................................................................................................. 6

Comments ..................................................................................................................................... 7

Comments about the Plan ......................................................................................................... 7

What is missing?........................................................................................................................ 9

Comments about the content / wording ...................................................................................... 9

Partnership working ................................................................................................................. 11

Comments relating to the Priorities .......................................................................................... 12

Other comments ...................................................................................................................... 24

Respondent Profile ...................................................................................................................... 25

Equalities Questions ................................................................................................................ 25

Respondents’ postcode ........................................................................................................... 26

Organisations .......................................................................................................................... 27

5. Staff Panel survey .................................................................................................................. 28

Sustainable Environment ............................................................................................................ 28

Dynamic Region .......................................................................................................................... 29

Connected Communities ............................................................................................................. 30

Brighter Futures .......................................................................................................................... 30

Fulfilled Lives .............................................................................................................................. 31

Final comments ........................................................................................................................... 31

6. Stakeholder engagement events .......................................................................................... 33

Sustainable Environment ............................................................................................................ 33

Dynamic Region .......................................................................................................................... 35

Connected Communities ............................................................................................................. 36

Brighter Futures .......................................................................................................................... 38

Fulfilled lives ............................................................................................................................... 39

7. Young People’s engagement ................................................................................................ 41

Vision ....................................................................................................................................... 41

Sustainable Environment ......................................................................................................... 41

Dynamic Region ...................................................................................................................... 42

Connected communities .......................................................................................................... 42

Fulfilled lives ............................................................................................................................ 43

Is there anything missing? ....................................................................................................... 44

8. Written responses ................................................................................................................. 45

9. DOTs Disability feedback ...................................................................................................... 49

Background ................................................................................................................................. 49

Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 49

Feedback .................................................................................................................................... 49

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1. Methodology

The Council Plan engagement ran from 5 August to 6 September 2019.

Council plan survey

The engagement forms (draft council plan and questionnaire) were published at

www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/councilplan and available in all BCP libraries. In addition, roadshows were

held in:

– Christchurch (Saxon Square) Tuesday 3 September

– Poole (Dolphin Centre) Wednesday 4 September

– Bournemouth (Castlepoint) Thursday 5 September

Stakeholder Events

The Community Voluntary Sector, Town and Parish Councils and Residents’ Associations (that the

council know about and were able to contact) were invited to two stakeholder events held the week

commencing Monday 2 September.

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Breakfast

BCP Council’s Economic Development Manager attended the DCCI Business Breakfast to promote

the council plan engagement and encourage the business community to complete the survey.

Youth Forum

A youth forum event was held on Thursday 5 September and 19 young people aged 12-18 gave

their views on the plan.

Staff Engagement

An online form was emailed to 227 members of the Staff Engagement Panel on 18 July 2019, with a

follow up email sent on 24 July 2019 to new members of the panel.

DOTs Disability

BCP Council asked DOTs Disability to run a discussion group about the draft council plan. The

report was compiled, based on discussions with a small number of local disabled people who were

a pan “protected characteristic group”.

Go Forum

An Easy Read version of the questionnaire was produced and disseminated. 14 respondents

completed the easy read version of the questionnaire and members of the Go Forum completed the

questionnaire as an organisation. There full response can be seen later in the report.

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2. Communications

The Council Plan survey was featured in all external enewsletters from 7-29 August, which

encouraged click-through to the www.bcpcouncil.govuk/councilplan webpage. During this period, it

was included in eight enewsletters, which were sent to over 56,800 recipients.

From 7 August - 4 September, the council plan survey was featured in five consecutive staff

enewsletters

The survey was published on the BCP Council Facebook page on 8, 12 and 14 August and 2 and 5

September. The plan survey was also pinned to the top of our Corporate Twitter account for the

duration of the survey. The average reach per posting (how many people saw the post), on

Facebook was 6600 and on Twitter was 38000.

A press release was sent to our media distribution group on 14 August, which encouraged residents

to take part online or visit their local library.

3. Council Plan engagement summary

The results from all of the methods of engagement are summarised below. The analysis will help to

make improvements to the high-level plan document and priorities. There is also a lot of information

which can inform the next stage of the process which includes writing a delivery plan.

Survey analysis

2,176 respondents took part in the survey. This includes 14 Easy Read surveys.

96% are residents and 4% responded on behalf of an organisation (25 of these work for BCP

Council).

Importance of priorities

Respondents were asked to rate the importance of each priority from 1 to 5 (where 1 = very low

priority and 5 is very high priority). Overall, respondents are supportive of the priorities, with each

receiving a 4 or 5 from over three quarters of respondents.

The table below shows the percentage of residents and organisations that feel each priority is a

high priority (scoring 4 or 5).

Residents Organisations

Sustainable Environment 82% 90%

Dynamic Region 81% 80%

Connected Communities 77% 82%

Brighter Futures 83% 91%

Fulfilled Lives 83% 82%

1,267 respondents wrote a comment or suggestion about the BCP Council Plan. The majority of

people are supportive of the overall priorities and actions. In the comments, many people

suggested the actions or improvements that they would like to see (which have been related to the

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priorities) or explained why they felt that priority is important. 580 respondents commented about

the Plan, including wanting to see more details and in particular how the plan would be

implemented/actioned and financed, as well as compliments about the plan.

Youth Forum

BCP Council’s Youth Participation Workers shared the questionnaire with young people over the

summer. A youth forum event was also held in Poole which 19 young people aged 12-18 attended.

The Chief Executive, Insight Manager and Youth Development Worker - Participation held a

workshop on the draft Council Plan. We asked young people if the plan resonated with them, what it

means to them and what the council should do under each of the priorities. The feedback will help

make changes to the draft Council Plan and to inform the delivery plan which will sit under it.

The overall feedback for the corporate plan was generally positive. The majority of young people

when asked to rate it out of 10 gave it a 7. The things that were important to the group that should

be addressed by the Council included: cleaner streets, safer streets (particularly Poole Bus Station),

homelessness, involvement of young people in council decision making, transparency of the

council, improve the bus network, affordable housing and for schools to care more about their

students. Protecting the environment was also seen as an important.

When asked about the vision, the young people particularly didn’t like the word ‘vibrant’ but didn’t

suggest an alternative. Some also struggled to define sustainability and dynamic. There were a

couple of comments about Brighter Futures and Fulfilled Lives meaning the same thing.

Stakeholder events

Two stakeholder events were held for the Community Voluntary Sector, Town and Parish Councils,

Area Forums and Residents’ Association representatives. 31 people attended an evening event in

Christchurch and 33 people attended an afternoon event in Poole.

It is quite difficult to summarise the stakeholder events feedback as the comments were varied all of

which will be useful in helping to shape the delivery plan. However, one of the main challenges with

all the priorities was the funding available to deliver the actions, not only for the Council but partner

organisations as well. There was also a strong message that BCP Council needs to make a

commitment to work and engage with partners (the community voluntary sector, partner

organisations, Town and Parish Councils and residents’ associations) in delivering its aspirations.

Go Forum

An Easy Read version of the questionnaire was produced and disseminated. 14 respondents

completed the easy read version of the questionnaire and members of the Go Forum completed the

questionnaire as an organisation. Their full response can be seen in the full Engagement report.

Every member rated each of the priorities as a 4 or a 5, apart from one member who rated Brighter

Futures as a 3.

Staff Panel

The Staff Panel were asked three open questions for each of the five priorities (What opportunities

do you think that this priority presents?, What challenges, if any, do you think could get in the way of

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achieving this priority? What ideas do you have for overcoming these? and How will we know we’ve

been successful?), plus an opportunity for a final comment about the Council Plan overall.

Results are difficult to summarise as they varied widely. Comments were broadly positive with

many seeing the opportunity to improve the lives of the area’s residents and some seeing an

opportunity to rethink the way in which the Council delivers services. Actions relating to transport

and housing received the most comments. Lack of finance and resources was seen as the main

barrier to delivering the priorities.

Written responses

The Chief Executive of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry provided his views of the draft

Plan and his main observation is that there is little emphasis on supporting economic and business

growth and a heavy focus on the digital economy and sustainability.

Christchurch Town Council provided a detailed response about each of the specific priorities overall,

they said that funding was important to be considered in light of what was affordable.

The Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council (HWPC) states that it gives wholehearted support to the

sentiments expressed by BCP and believes there is little that anyone could object to in terms of

desired outcomes. However, it states the document shouldn’t be called a plan and that it is a set of

principles.

Dorset Local Nature Partnership (DLNP) support the inclusion of Sustainable Environment as a

specific priority within the Council’s plan and associated actions.

Dorset Wildlife Trust note that they are pleased that health and wellbeing and environmental

sustainability both come through very strongly as values and act as golden threads through the

plan.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service welcome the draft Council Plan. Their only

suggestion is regarding the middle section around Vibrant Communities. This section has the

smallest writing but importantly is about individual impact “with outstanding quality of life where

everyone pays an active role”. They advised that this section is reconsidered to underline the

importance that each person plays. Change cannot be brought about by the staff and teams alone

and perhaps the public we serve should be included into each of the priorities to show there is a

place for them to be engaged and make an impact in their community.

DOTs Disability

BCP Council asked DOTs Disability to run a discussion group about the draft council plan. They

compiled a report, based on discussions with a small number of local disabled people who were a

pan “protected characteristic group”. Much of the feedback from this group will help inform and

improve the next steps of the Council Plan process. Some specific feedback on the high-level plan

included some of the phrases used in the document were considered to be “buzz words” and not

meaningful to the people who viewed it.

DOTs note that the introduction to the plan mentions BCP Councils’ commitments to equality and

diversity which is very welcome, as are specific references to older people and carers within the

document. It is noted that the plan does not mention disabled people, people from the LGBT

communities etc. Whilst DOTs recognised the challenges of referencing all communities within such

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a document, the group recommended that there is significant value in referencing the term

“protected characteristic groups,” in this and all related high-level strategic documents. DOTs

recommend this because these are the groups of people most likely to be excluded from the

aspirational outcomes sited in the plan. Their view is that it is key to the success of the BCP Council

Plan that the legal obligations of “anticipatory Reasonable Adjustment” are embedded at a strategic

level, in order to leverage high quality engagement, participation and co-production throughout the

development and the delivery phases.

Conclusion

Overall BCP Council’s Plan has been well received and the priorities are also endorsed by

respondents. Improvements have been suggested along with issues that respondents felt were

missing. These were:

• Housing

• Affordable housing

• Transport

• Travel plan

• Clean streets

• Protecting wildlife

• Culture

• Arts, Heritage, Creativity

• Leisure

• Diversity and protected characteristics

• Disability

• The local economy

• Economic growth

• Tourism

• Developing and attracting business

• Further education / Higher education

• Mental Health

• Health Care

• Care for elderly / older people

• Social and community adult care

• Safety

• The police

• Integrated system for entry so a person as a contact in BCP who can signpost to all areas

• Integrated Transport Policy

• Transparency

• Generating income

• Partnership working

• Involvement in decision making

• Lack of collaboration / partnership

Based on feedback it is recommended that BCP Council considers the following:

• Acknowledge that the high-level document is not a plan and should be called either a high-

level strategy or vision.

• Look to reword some of the jargon to make the document easier to understand.

• Acknowledge that to achieve its strategy/vision BCP Council will work with its partner

organisations and the community voluntary sector. This should be reflected in the high-level

plan to show the Council’s commitment to support volunteering and an active relationship

with the voluntary and community sector.

• Look at the issues that have been suggested by respondents as missing or needing more

emphasis. Consider whether they are issues that should be included in the high-level plan or

should and will be included within the delivery plan.

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4. Council Plan survey responses

2,176 respondents took part in the survey. This includes 14 Easy Read surveys.

96% are residents and 4% responded on behalf of an organisation (25 of these work for BCP

Council).

Importance of priorities

Respondents were asked to rate the importance of each priority from 1 to 5 (where 1 = very low

priority and 5 is very high priority). Overall, respondents are supportive of the priorities, with each

receiving a 4 or 5 from over three quarters of respondents.

The table below shows the percentage of residents and organisations that feel each priority is a

high priority (scoring 4 or 5).

Residents Organisations

Sustainable Environment 82% 90%

Dynamic Region 81% 80%

Connected Communities 77% 82%

Brighter Futures 83% 91%

Fulfilled Lives 83% 82%

Figure 1: Importance of priorities (residents)

3%

2%

2%

2%

2%

3%

4%

4%

3%

3%

11%

14%

16%

12%

12%

24%

32%

31%

26%

28%

58%

49%

46%

57%

55%

Sustainable Environment

Dynamic Region

Connected Communities

Brighter Futures

Fulfilled Lives

1 2 3 4 5

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Figure 2: Importance of priorities (organisations)

(Figures of less than 2% not labelled)

Comments

Respondents were asked ‘Do you have any comments or suggestions about the BCP Plan?’

1,267 respondents wrote a comment or suggestion about the BCP Council Plan. Generally,

respondents are supportive of the overall priorities and actions. In the comments, many people

suggested the actions or improvements that they would like to see (which have been related to the

priorities) or explained why they felt a particular priority is important. Some made comments or

suggestions about the Plan more generally.

The numbers of respondents making comments relating to each theme are indicated, but it must be

noted that many respondents referred to more than one theme, and many of the themes overlap, so

the numbers will not add up to 1,267.

Comments about the Plan

580 respondents commented about the Plan, including wanting to see more detail, in particular how

the Plan would be implemented/actioned and financed, as well as compliments about the Plan.

144 respondents would like to see more detail, in particular how the Council will achieve the actions.

The plan looks and sounds great, but I would be far more impressed if there was a hint

under each item that suggests what actions the Council will take to achieve these goals

The plan was very high level with no detailed plans, timescales or actions. How is the

deliverability of this plan to be measured and by when. Seemed very apple pie and

motherhood statements and all a bit too glib.

2%

9%

18%

17%

7%

16%

28%

34%

33%

31%

31%

62%

46%

49%

60%

51%

Sustainable Environment

Dynamic Region

Connected Communities

Brighter Futures

Fulfilled Lives

1 2 3 4 5

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The statements are all great, but there is no 'how’ I look forward to seeing how these

goals will be achieved

The summary plan on a page is very good and the priorities come through loud and

clear. Clearly the detail - and challenge to make it happen - is to follow.

What is not clear in here is how this is to be achieved.

Very noble aspirations but the plan is full of current buzz words without any detail as to

how these targets could be achieved.

The plan is far too high a level as it is a series of headlines. It needs more detail.

It all sounds great but because it does not provided detail on how these actions will be

achieved

Following on from this, 39 respondents felt that the Plan is not a plan as there are no details as to

how it will be achieved. Other words used to describe it are: a set of objectives, priorities,

ambitions, aims, aspirations, goals or a wish list.

In my opinion a plan should include what those generic high level objectives would mean

in real terms to the people of BCP and an indication of how/when they are going to be

achieved.

I felt it unfortunate that the document was released as a 'PLAN' as it was more like high

level strategic objectives …

The so-called Plan is, in fact, more like a mission statement - areas of aspiration. There

is no detail as to how these aspirations will be realised. Until this detail is provided -

specific time-bounded and costed actions - a plan does not exist. I would suggest that a

long-term, or strategic plan is formulated, based on inputs from operational areas.

Respondents also wanted to see more details of how the plan would be financed or costed (137

comments). Some also wondered how the actions would be prioritised.

How is any of this to be financed?

Great ideas, but it would be interesting to see how the council plans to budget to achieve

all this.

Great plan but not sure where the finances are coming for you to deliver it.

I am sure virtually everyone would want ALL these things but in the real world thanks to

years of "austerity" where will the funding come from?

I wholeheartedly agree with the BCP Council Plan, but is the budget how much will this

cost?

It looks ambitious and no one suggestion stands out as the most important so allocating

the limited funds available will be tricky.

The devil will be in the detail, how to implement it and how to get the resources to

implement it.

9

Would appreciate further detail - timescales, cost and implementation of key areas for

action. When and how is this plan to be achieved? The range of actions is wide

ranging and all are relevant but I doubt they will be achievable under current financial

constraints. I wait to see...

92 respondents included a positive statement about the plan in their comment.

I think the plan looks great and that you have highlighted all the important issues.

An excellent future plan for the region.

It looks well thought out, covering many issues.

Refreshing to see a collaborative approach to doing what’s right for the local community.

It’s a clear and positive plan.

Looks very comprehensive and, if successfully implemented, will make our area a really

lovely place to live and work in.

Congratulations for the presentation (wheel) of the plan and the easy read version of it.

What is missing?

As well as comments about lack of information about funding and actions to deliver the Plan,

respondents highlight that there is no mention of housing, transport, travel plan, affordable housing,

clean streets, the police, health care, care for the elderly / older people or ‘aged’, social and

community adult care, culture, diversity, disability, the local economy, economic growth, tourism,

developing and attracting business, procurement, transparency, protecting wildlife, the behaviours

of the Council and how we can generate more income.

All of these strategies need to underpin a plan to close the gap between the have and

the have not's in our area.

There was also a comment that the plan focuses externally, what about internally? i.e what the

council will do itself do support the priorities e.g. reduce our carbon footprint.

Traffic congestion, public transport, buses, issues relating to planning and development,

car parks, roads, mental health and were also commented on by respondents and are

not specifically mentioned in the draft plan, so these could be incorporated so that the

plan uses words that the public used and recognise.

Comments about the content / wording

Some people commented about the wording of the plan, including comments about the use of

jargon or buzz words (8 people used the word jargon and 7 used buzz words). Some respondents

highlighted specific words they were not sure about being used, and some suggested some

rewording. From the comments it appears that having ‘innovative digital economy’ at the start of the

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dynamic region confuses what the priority is about and some respondents suggest that this should

include other economic sectors.

For the public at large I feel that the scope and complexity of the subject matter that the

plan addresses is beyond our capacity to provide too much other than superficial

observations.

At the roadshows, some people couldn’t immediately understand the priorities ‘Dynamic Region’,

‘Connected Communities’ or ‘Fulfilled lives’ and this came through to a certain extent from the

survey.

"Dynamic region" what does this mean?

I think the headline for dynamic region is a bit liner, focusing on digital business, I think

you need to open that up a bit more at the top level, so it is inclusive of long-standing

business. This is a tourist area and I feel this is really underrepresented in this poster.

Sustainable was also questioned by respondents.

what is sustainable?

My initial comments relate to what some words and statements might mean e.g.

"Sustainability" features strongly - what does it mean?

There is also an issue about definitions of terms - sustainability is mentioned a lot, but it

means different things in different contexts and to different people - do we mean financial

sustainability, environmental sustainability, organisational sustainability.......

"Tackle the climate change emergency” is meaningless (and useless) objective in the

context of BCP Council's powers and responsibilities. A much more sensible objective

would be to prepare for and, where possible, mitigate the effects of climate change on

our community.

A few people highlighted words that they did not like, with some giving alternative suggestions.

Dynamic Region - what is a digital infrastructure?

I am concerned, however, when I see words like 'promote, ensure, enable'.

I don't like 'We are a modern, accessible & accountable council' etc. It's too soon to

know whether you are or not.

'We aim to be' seems more in keeping with the aspiration, worthy though it is.

Similarly, 'Vibrant communities... where everyone plays an active role': this one, in

marketing jargon is usually called 'an offer', and as such I commend it. But it reads as a

fact, even though it's logically and literally impossible to achieve - 'everyone can play an

active role' avoids the unnecessary hyperbole.

Lots of good things here - like the language around "Fulfilled lives" and "adding years to

life and life to years" But… the bit in the centre of the circle looks like an after-thought:

extra words that don't add to the overall.

When you next present it PLEASE try to avoid buzzwords - they mean nothing and make

your message obscure rather than clear. For example what does being "aspirational" to

children mean?....Please also include an explanation of what is meant exactly by the

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buzz words. I realise that for eye catching and "punchy" presentation brevity is essential

but please turn this from a marketing document into a sales presentation

We are surprised that neither FE nor HE is mentioned in the priorities section and we

suggest that the council could add “working in partnership with further and higher

education partners to develop our communities and our economy” to the Dynamic

Region section and that “supporting choices and opportunities for further and higher

education” should be included in the Brighter Futures section.

"Prevent rough sleeping" could perhaps be written as "help rough sleepers"

Some respondents commented about the actions.

The 'actions' for your key initiatives seem more like goals. An action to me is something

which leads to the goal. For example, 'promote happy, active, healthy lifestyles (goal) by

removing economic barriers to leisure centres for certain communities or age groups

(action). Seeing this level of detail helps people really understand the impact of all the

various services, help, and goodwill the council actually provides.

Far too many priorities identified under the ''actions'' list. These bullet points are not

actions they are sound bites/aspirations.

Partnership working

26 people commented that working with partners, or the role the community and voluntary sector

could play in achieving the plan, was missing.

As many of the stated aims/themes involve working with other organisations to achieve

them there should be mention of working in partnership.

Both Fulfilled Lives and Connected Communities could be enhanced by acknowledging

the important role that voluntary groups and volunteering have. By strengthening the

voluntary and community sector, many of BCP aims could be achieved.

How does the voluntary and community sector fit into your plan? (or health?) They are

really important in so many ways, but you haven’t even hinted at them. You have given

the impression you are going to do it all by yourself which seems unlikely given current

financial circumstances. It is interesting to note that on your main diagram there is little

mention of working in partnership with anyone (except perhaps business) - it gives the

impression you are in charge and we the population are going to be ‘done to’. Surely that

isn’t what you are aiming for?

Partner with the Third Sector, faith communities.

here is also a missing component around collaboration and working with the rest of

Dorset's health & social care system and beyond. Without strong and effective

partnerships, it won't be possible to achieve transformation of any kind. The objectives

are ambitious and not obtainable in isolation.

I am also keen that the council works with others who can help - charities, NHS,

churches etc.

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(More important): this can't be the "Council's" plan - as with reducing resources, BCP

Council cannot deliver all of this on their own. I lead a local Christian charity, so I want to

play my part. So, it would be great if it was a set of priorities for the whole city region,

and on the sheet we recognise that it needs everyone pulling together to deliver it.

67 people commented about the questionnaire. Many commented that all the priorities are

important, others wanted to be able to prioritise the actions and to have the opportunity to have their

say on this. Some people felt the 1 to 5 scale used to rank the priorities was too simplistic. A few

people commented about the inclusion of the personal questions at the end of the questionnaire.

It's difficult to grade whole sections from 1-5, when the subsections are so diverse.

However, I applaud the overall intentions.

Impossible to answer any of these because I agree with some of the points in each

section and disagree with others.

This is such a massive wide mix of objectives that have been lumped together. Each

individual objective needs individual rating to deliver a viable plan. No detailed plan can

be developed from this massive lumping.

Any responsible organisation should aim to achieve ALL the previous aspirations, so the

questions are irrelevant and a waste of time!

Your survey rating scale (1-5) is far too simplistic for such detailed and specific

objectives. These priorities are of course all very important and you will I suggest get the

answers you want.

Comments relating to the Priorities

Sustainable Environment

186 comments related to Sustainable Environment. Many of these related to the climate emergency

and protecting the environment, but other topics were included. Some people commented that they

were pleased that the climate emergency was a priority, with many suggesting ways to help with the

climate emergency or actions the Council could take; for example increase the electric vehicle

charging infrastructure in the area, reducing congestion (this is covered in the Traffic section),

sustainable travel methods (public transport, cycle routes) and consistent recycling across BCP.

There were also comments about how the Council could lead and encourage others to help

preserve the environment.

It is good to see sustainability at the top and centre of this plan and it should underpin

everything that the Council does. We have declared a Climate Emergency and we

should act as we would for any other emergency - now and with purpose.

I gave most a high priority because they are all so important to a community and we

have to be especially aware of climate emergency.

Tackling the climate change emergency has to take top spot and so much else comes

with that: Transport, Town planning, Environmental protection, Jobs, Community etc.

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Environment and sustainability is priority. More cycling network, restriction on wasteful

car usage will solve more of the problems in other headings.

What I'd like to see from BCP is bold action on climate change. Why can't we be the first

council in the UK to provide sufficient digital infrastructure so that people work from

home by default not by exception? It would alleviate pressure on local roads and

significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the area.

Encourage or challenge everyone toward zero carbon - support projects such as eco

bricking where they can be used to make a structure and get communities involved.

More venues with drinking water to encourage reusable plastic. Competitions for

companies to reduce emissions.

I hope that the Sustainable Environment priorities will lead to investment in high quality

cycling infrastructure

I can't emphasise enough how much the environment needs to come first and underpin

every decision. We can't survive without a habitable planet. You need to be incredibly

radical about this. Ditch the greenwash approach which has been prevalent for the last

decade. We have a climate emergency, which means we need to stop using fossil fuels

NOW. We also need to start planning for what BCP needs to look like in 100 years time.

In the sustainability section there is a reference to the Climate Change emergency, but

no reference to encourage and support local businesses and households to become

carbon neutral.

Protecting our environment and green spaces should be a top priority. The introduction

of food waste bins to Poole should be done ASAP, and the reduction of plastic in our

supermarkets should be encouraged.

I think it needs to include more on the aspiration to be carbon neutral in the future and

more encouragement on recycling and reusing. Whilst on this theme I think

encouragement for businesses and supermarkets to reduce packaging and encourage

collection of food in personal containers. Also that a corporate officer be nominated as a

waste champion whose remit would be to identify and reduce all waste in all areas.

I believe the Council needs to ensure more waste is recycled and help to decrease the

amount of plastics that supermarkets put on their products. Also more needs to be done

maintaining the trees around the area, I understand the restraints there have been on

budgets in recent years but in some places there is a need.

Food waste bins would be a good idea

Acknowledging the climate and environment crisis and responding to this with leadership

by example across the Council community is fundamental. Community Energy Usage,

Housing, Transport - are 3 big areas where the Council can have a big influence on

helping us all in our conurbation to change our energy use to renewable, sustainable

sources, housing can be built to near zero CO2 impact, transport can be improved with

joined-up thinking to remove lots of avoidable car journeys from our roads - reducing

pollution, CO2 and improving the health outcomes for many.

A few people felt the climate emergency shouldn’t be something that BCP needs to tackle, as it is a

national priority, or the word ‘emergency’ is being used to scare people. Some people explained that

is why they had scored it lower than the other priorities.

14

I've scored the environment lower only because I believe that this plan only works fully

with international and national efforts. Local efforts are great but are futile for the bigger

scale i.e. Why should we give towards it when others aren't bothered. It's a team effort!

I believe tackling the climate change emergency is for national and international

governments to fund and manage not local government. Obviously, local actions can be

taken to play a part in the bigger picture but local government should concentrate on

using its scarce resources to tackle local issues.

Traffic and Roads

Many people commented about transport/roads/road network (104 respondents) and how traffic (57

people) is affecting the area. These are overlapping topics and relate to both the Sustainable

Environment and Dynamic Region priorities. This topic is frequently mentioned with public transport

and cycle ways (as a solution) and this is covered in its own section.

With regards to the environment, priority must be given to reducing traffic pollution and

congestion.

BCP frequently gets traffic gridlocked, even with minor reasons. Better traffic

management systems needed, including better police forensic speedier procedures and

Park and ride facilities

Developing an active travel network is essential. You have done virtually nothing in the

past towards this. If all you did was to solve the traffic generated by the school run every

day, this would be a success.

We desperately need a BCP wide, modern, low cost people moving solution before the

road network becomes totally gridlocked. The current road situation is bad for the local

economy and bad for the environment. Use the current main road network for trams,

light railway or some other similar solution which will incentivise more people to leave

their cars at home.

Please tackle traffic in the area, especially around schools, different school times?

difficult as people work but the best travel times are when the schools are on holiday.

I think that a key part of the of the sustainability must be more effective transport

solutions and with the creation of the new council across the three districts this is an

ideal opportunity to tackle that. I would advocate looking into using the existing network

rail lines as the basis for tram systems as a starting point

Sort out public transport/road network. The traffic and lack of main roads into the towns

strangles business

As a matter of urgency Poole needs an improved road link to the A31 and beyond.

Bournemouth has the Wessex Way and Poole needs something similar. Plans for a dual

carriageway road link from Tower Park to Ferndown were drawn up several years ago

but then rejected. WHY?

A Traffic volume is seriously high in the BCP area. Ideas for improvement in traffic

management and public transport, including rail facilities, should be given serious

consideration.

Deal with traffic congestion to improve flow and encourage use of public transport.

15

fully integrated and comprehensive public transport network needs to be further

developed as, at the moment, although good is still too fragmented. This would also help

the congestion problems we have in the area..

To create an eco-friendly transport network requires a massive move from diesel buses

to electric or natural gas and with respect you need to resolve the chronic traffic flows in

the region otherwise any eco-friendly moves are wasted.

Planning (as a cause due to large developments and potential solution) is also mentioned in relation

to traffic. Planning is also covered in the planning comments section below.

Where is there mention of providing proper infrastructure to support the large amount of

development being proposed in the local area? We need roads to relieve the over used

existing road structure that has been very badly neglected by the councils locally for too

long. What is the reason for not making developers pay for new roads to relieve the

gridlock we already have?

Your biggest priority should be improving transport infrastructure across the three towns.

Constantly allowing new housing without increasing road capacity will lead to gridlock,

more so than now.

The top priority of this council should be to improve the road network especially

Ringwood Road through Longham. If you are going to build 3000+ new houses then the

developers should pay for the infra structure to handle the 6000 + cars.

My main concern is the road network. With house numbers increasing and already busy

roads (4th busiest in the UK recently reported) major investment and radical initiatives

are needed to tackle this in hotspot areas

Buses/public transport

Improving public transport is another area that relates to both the Sustainable Environment and

Dynamic Region priorities. 67 people commented on this, including more services, more frequently

and helping people to travel across BCP more easily and moving to electric buses.

The routes of the Yellow Busses need to be monitored as they change quite frequently,

often leaving residents without a (convenient) service. This does not help keeping an

independent life and a cleaner environment - HAVING to use my car when before I used

public transport!

Public transport must be more frequent and affordable with more bus lanes.

Combine More Buses and Yellow Buses so that people can travel from Christchurch to

Poole cheaply and easily.

I hope that the buses within BCP area will soon be going fully electric - This should

improve the air quality (and possibly save money due to simpler maintenance)

Public transport is the most pressing issue in the conurbation. Trains need to be more

frequent between Poole and Southampton. Bus timetables need to be ripped up and

started again, using an on-demand live system that brings the bus to the customer. Bus

sizes need to be reduced and buses need to run every 15 minutes, particularly in the

outlying areas, that More Bus cover.

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Those of us that live on the fringes of BCP area (e.g. Highcliffe) seem to suffer from

worse public transport. We need more services linking us to the core of BCP (ego Yellow

Buses 1A)…

Cycling/cycle ways

Cycle ways were mentioned by 46 respondents, with a mix of people wanting more of them as a

more sustainable way of travelling…

Healthy lives come from trying to persuade people to get out and enjoy what is on their

doorstep. A dedicated cycle track linking the whole conurbation will be imperative.

Cycle lane along the beach. Cheap. Effective. Simple. Allow use 12 months of the year.

Encourage cycling, not driving.

provide more cycle routes that are off road (not just painted lines on the road that stop

halfway) to meaningful places (I'm very impressed by the new ones recently built - keep

going!)

cycle network for children: from home to school, to library, to leisure centre = positive

effect on environment, futures and fulfilled lives.

A cycle \ pedestrian route around the Upton/Hamworthy side of the Harbour (at the

water’s edge) must be the base of any future planning. Without this I dread to think what

might happen. Good luck!

…and those commenting on some of the cycle ways that don’t work.

Stop wasting money on cycle paths that no cyclist uses which are reducing the size of

junctions and the width of the roads. Repair the roads instead.

All this sustainable stuff doesn't wash when roads are heavily congested and the

council's answer is to put in a cycle path for an occasional cyclist

Stop putting in ten-yard cycle lanes as this does not encourage safety and actively keep

cyclist off paths where there are already alternative cycle routes for example Wallisdown

Road.

Dynamic Region

228 comments related to Dynamic Region. Respondents commented about this priority generally,

supporting this as a priority and the importance of creating jobs and growing businesses. Other

topics mentioned including housing, the high street/town centres, parking, planning, tourism and

businesses are summarised in their own sections below. Traffic and roads was another common

topic with 94 comments related to the Dynamic Region. This was covered under the Traffic and

Roads section in the Sustainable Environment Section.

I feel that everything we would like to do hinges on having a vibrant economy - this must

be the top priority.

I believe there is too much focus on a digital economy and not enough on alternative

opportunities for work. We do need to keep up with progression but we are no longer

self-sufficient in areas such as food production, manufacturing, science and research to

name a few. Not everyone is equipped to work in an office.

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Also be good to see the plan talk about attracting and retaining talent particularly

focused on innovation and digital - under Dynamic Region.

What about the economy, economic development and jobs, your aspirations don't

include generating jobs and a vibrant growing business economy.

There is no mention of job creation through our manufacturing and engineering

expertise. Supporting job creation in the IT sector is worthy, but BCP must do more to

support other job creators which in turn support the local economy. Businesses should

be given a high priority and more of an incentive to redevelop old sites that damage our

environment into energy efficient and environmentally friendly centres of excellence.

importance of connected policies leaning to growth and inward investment missing,

selling the resort as an attractive destination lacking, is potentially an inward looking plan

not an outward looking mission to achieve growth. Town Centre regeneration, BCP

should seek to test its high street regeneration model by inviting input from e.g. national

regeneration experts in public sector

Strategy for increase the GVA of the area by promoting/assisting the right type of

companies. High tech, not supermarkets! Have a strategy for retaining University

graduates. Acquire >25% of the High Street freeholds as part of a cohesive strategy to

reduce rental values. . . as a way of attracting small independent traders

add “working in partnership with further and higher education partners to develop our

communities and our economy” to the Dynamic Region section

High Street/Town Centre

93 people commented about the High Street /Town Centre, mainly relating to their decline and how

they can be improved, with some suggesting to look at various other towns or cities for ideas to

redevelop the town centres…

Resolving the decaying town centre shopping areas especially in Bournemouth and

Poole must be a priority, even [Christchurch] is struggling.

The town centre is dying on its feet because of this and looks run down, scruffy and sad

as do some other areas like Winton.

Shame the town centre has so many empty stores not sure how you’re going to turn that

around.

To try and invigorate the high street when shops are closing due the internet and high

council taxes is unachievable.

Too many coffee shops. Needs more retail shops.

there are far too many charity shops in the high streets, probably because the

businesses can't afford the rent the council charges.

Regeneration of the high Street is vital, the current outbreak of empty shopping units

creates a terrible impression for residents and visitors alike. Consider reducing tax to

encourage new businesses.

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We need to have a look at other places who have good town centres. This probably

includes good bus links and cheap parking in shopping areas to get people to visit

Bournemouth. People these days won't do anywhere where the parking is too expensive

I would like to see a thriving town centre with leisure facilities, interesting shops, well

landscaped areas...There should be plenty of events to attract holiday makers and the

return of amenities like an ice rink, swimming pool etc.

…and others mentioning the high cost of parking and business rates (parking is also covered in a

section below).

I think you need to consider lowering parking charges and business rates in

Bournemouth. I don’t have a business but I am horrified when I go into the town centre to

see the endless empty shops, so reducing rates would surely help as empty shops result

in No rents! The parking charges also deter people from the centre and this also applies

to theatre patrons. Surely you need to look at the bigger picture and encourage people

into Bournemouth and stop using parking as a cash cow!!

if you are serious about attracting footfall to your town centres, particularly Bournemouth,

have a serious review of the extortionate parking charges and the effect they have.

the council should look at the car parking charges as these high charges are a deterrent

to shoppers and if they are too high the loser is the high streets, also look at reducing

high street shops business rates to help those shops who are struggling.

Some of the comments also relate to homelessness and community safety/policing and PSPOs,

again because of their impact on the towns. These are covered in the Connected Communities

section.

Do not remove the PSPO [Poole] as its improved the high street

Parking

Comments about parking (62 comments) relate to reducing charges to encourage use of the town

centres and increasing charges to discourage car use, improvements to parking for the elderly /

disabled, introducing more electric vehicle charging and ensuring parking is built for new

homes/developments.

To regenerate the town centre is easy, reduce the parking charges for Bournemouth

residents. Yes it's that easy bring out a yearly pass and stop ripping everybody off.

Charge more for parking in town, but buses will be cheaper to encourage less traffic.

Just listen to what the residents want such as parking meters that take cash as well as

card

Increase the electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the area. At least one charging

hub and how about chargers in every council car park. Encourage electric vehicle use by

offering free/reduced parking.

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Tourism

32 respondents mentioned tourism, with most commenting that there is no mention of tourism in the

plan.

I thought it was really good. Could perhaps be more explicit in Dynamic Region about

supporting and promoting tourism and generating employment. It is implied but seems a

bit odd for such a tourist area not to actually use the word tourism.

Nothing really on tourism given it is such a vital part of the local employment market and

importance of it in delivering spend into the local communities

The plan is also totally silent on the main economic activity of the Council area,

TOURISM. Why is this?

Concentrate on the fundamental economic growth, year-round tourism and good

transport, and the rest will look after themselves

Hopefully we will not lose sight of the fact that we are quite highly dependent on tourism

and facilities for our welcome guests must be kept in excellent condition…

Invest and develop BCP as high quality seaside and leisure resort to attract visitors and

money into the region

Tourism is a key driver for the area and it's imperative the streets are safe, residents and

visitors feel safe.

Planning / Development

Development, or planning, was raised by 82 respondents, including protecting the green belt,

overdevelopment (and its impact on local services/infrastructure), housing (this overlaps with the

housing/affordable housing section below) and comments about planning policies.

I would like to have seen more emphasis on protecting the green belt

How does sustainability underpinning planning policy marry up with our challenging

housing targets? The Poole Local Plan has two urban extensions (UEs) which we got

through Examination on the proviso that housing is urgently required and UEs were

necessary evils to deliver this but the two sites are inherently unsustainable.

BCP need to be aware of overdevelopment and overpopulation in the BCP areas This

puts pressure on Hospitals, GP surgeries, Police, transport, elderly services, education

and people’s general wellbeing. Whilst the BCP plan is admirable, where is the funding

coming from for so many improvements and projects Bournemouth particularly is rapidly

in danger of becoming overdeveloped.

Housing including affordable should be built only on brown sites and only on green field

when all brown sites are used.

Please could the Council be more proactive in seeking out derelict or empty properties

and space already being wasted in towns rather than take away our countryside.

there should be a commitment to build council houses and not rely on "developers" to

provide social housing as they always try to avoid this as it is not "economically viable"

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Where is there mention of providing proper infrastructure to support the large amount of

development being proposed in the local area? We need roads to relieve the over used

existing road structure that has been very badly neglected by the councils locally for too

long. What is the reason for not making developers pay for new roads to relieve the

gridlock we already have?

A key factor particularly for Bournemouth centre - Lansdowne and town Centre is

stronger planning controls and vision. Lansdowne area, in particular, is a mess of mixed

up styles and building heights and generally poor quality recent design which looks a

mess.

Taking residents opinions into account when making Planning decisions

Stop building blocks of flats and start catering for families.

Where are the new houses going to be built? Is infrastructure and extra facilities going to

be put in place before housing developments?

Developers want to build high end of the market homes as they are more profitable,

Affordable housing needs the infrastructure to go with them. You don't appear to insist

on this.

Housing

Housing was raised by 79 respondents, with many saying that it should be the biggest priority or

feature in the plan. Housing overlaps with the planning section.

I am disappointed to see a lack of commitment to housing generally. This is not about

tackling rough sleeping (which does need addressing) but about understanding that

quality and affordable housing prevents ill health, both physical and mental and builds

communities. Getting housing right would automatically solve some of the other issues

that have been highlighted as priorities in the plan. Investing in housing can therefore

reduce expenditure in other areas. There is a real opportunity for BCP to be a leading

council in this area

Objectives are far too wide. You should have put housing into a category of its own

Private rented properties in this town are often atrocious and yet asking for top level

rents? Surely someone controls these prices? There needs to be a minimum standard to

demand high prices: double glazed, central heated, no damp, and minimum room sizes.

Ensure that new homes built are not sold as second homes!

Housing: Could a factor be inserted regarding generating electricity through Solar

Panels? I have seen a few developments where Solar panels are part of the roof

structure. Could developers be encouraged to follow this suggestion, reducing in part the

need for fossil fuels?

I feel that young couples stand very little chance of buying a home of their own

Stop building expensive housing nobody can afford and build more starter homes and

not on green belt land.

most young people won't stay here so council funds would be put to better use on other

facilities such as housing because it's almost impossible to live here.

21

29 people commented on the need for more affordable housing in the area.

The most pressing issues in my opinion are to ensure enough genuinely affordable

housing / social housing

Council needs to build housing. Even working families struggle with high rents and this

needs to be recognised. Housing people in the private sector is not viable in today's

market. Has to be more social housing.

With 4000+ on council waiting list, I feel social housing should be a priority for the

council, too many families in poor overpriced bnbs, and too many families living in

overcrowded conditions.

Affordable Housing is needed for families, couples and the new generation of buyers

(myself being in this bracket, I'm finding it difficult to find affordable homes) Do we really

need any more Uni accommodation blocks?

Connected Communities

131 comments related to Connected Communities, 74 of these were related to wanting more police

presence, reducing anti-social behaviour and drug problems (all often mentioned with

homelessness which is covered under Fulfilled Lives).

More needs to be done to tackle safety in our neighbourhoods and deal with antisocial

behaviour

A drive to reduce crime, including minor crime, should also be a priority.

Higher Police presence around the towns stamping out antisocial behaviour before it

gets worse

Putting more police on the street and tackling low level crime would help each of the

sections in your plan.

I am keen to see what plans there are for Boscombe. I am concerned that the area goes

from bad to worse with lots of rough sleepers and blatant drug use in Boscombe Chine

Gardens. I want to see a nice environment to live in, clean streets, trees, flowers, and a

sense of community….

Maybe I missed it, but nothing about erasing the drunks and drug problems that seem to

be invading our community and the fact that it is on the rise

Other comments under Connected Communities relate to working with partners and the community

sector (covered in Partnership section).

People across BCP volunteer to make their communities better, and often deliver your

actions, so we’d like to suggest a couple of actions under ‘connected communities’. Your

actions don’t necessarily need to be about funding. It can be through acknowledgement,

partnership working and support ‘in kind’ etc. We’d like to suggest something along the

lines of: - Empower a thriving voluntary and community sector. - Enable volunteering so

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people can contribute and improve their wellbeing. We feel these actions will better

reflect BCP Council’s commitment to support volunteering, and your local voluntary and

community sector.

Partner with the Third Sector, faith communities.

A few people mentioned equalities.

I would like to congratulate BCP Council on their consideration and support of LGBT

people, as reflected by this survey, which explicitly identifies and respects the existence

and welfare of trans-people.

Underpinning all of this should be considerations regarding equality

Brighter Futures

Comments about Brighter Futures (49 comments) relate to spending more on education/schools

and having more of a focus on children and young people.

There must also be a strong focus on our children (11-18 particularly can get left

behind)…teenagers and young people in particular (e.g. to age 25) can feel left out and

forgotten about.

Investment in affordable opportunities/activities for our youth - because they are our

future - bring back youth clubs, encourage social/sports 'free' activities,

apprenticeship/part time work opportunities.

The BCP area has a particular strength in Higher Education which should be noted in

this section. The Higher Education offering…supports the local economy and brings

benefits to residents. Many students come from the local area, supporting local

employability and we and our students and staff work in the community, including with

local schools. Many of our graduates also remain in the area, working for local

businesses, and we work with local businesses on research and innovation projects.

Further education is also an important contributor to the local community, employability

and the economy.

“supporting choices and opportunities for further and higher education” should be

included in the Brighter Futures section.

In addition, students were mentioned by 22 respondents. 16 people felt that Bournemouth focuses

too much on students / student accommodation.

Fulfilled Lives

148 comments relate to Fulfilled Lives. Around a third of people commenting mentioned

homelessness (53 comments) and 32 respondents commented about hospitals/health care. Other

comments that supported this as a priority, were about adult social care, increasing support for

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mental health services, making BCP accessible or providing activities for older people and the role

of partners and the voluntary sector in helping to achieve this priority.

The conurbation faces huge challenges with adult social care…

I just don't know if you will achieve anything with Social Care without a radical review of

current services.

Have facilities that make region accessible for all - changing places toilets - business

signed up to Safe Places scheme - that Poole bus station and other busy public spaces

are safe and welcoming. Jobs for everyone should mean reasonable adjustments so

people with disabilities do not miss out

The routes of the Yellow busses need to be monitored as they change quite frequently,

often leaving residents without a (convenient) service. This does not help keeping an

independent life…

Get the elderly more active, connected and moving. Don't let the elderly be a burden on

the health service.

Healthy lives come from trying to persuade people to get out and enjoy what is on their

doorstep. A dedicated cycle track linking the whole conurbation Will be imperative, so

will the overhead metro line which was proposed some time ago.

I am pleased that you have included support people to live safe and independent lives to

promote happy, active and healthy lifestyles, develop age-friendly communities, value

and support carers, enable people to live well through quality social care, reduce

loneliness and isolation and ensure our communities feel safe.

Affordable housing and care for the elder would have to be my top issues, alongside

improvements in the support of mental health needs.

Mental health care needs more funding.

We have a relatively low % spend on mental health in this area. It would make a huge

difference to the lives of the most vulnerable people in the community if this was

increased.

We need more job opportunities for people with disabilities

Homelessness

53 respondents mentioned homelessness/rough sleeping, with most supportive of the action to

helping homeless people. Some asked for more information on how this would be tackled, as the

wording of the action ‘tackle homelessness and prevent rough sleeping’ can sound negative.

Homelessness is a particular problem.

…how SPECIFICALLY is the homelessness and obvious drug/ASB going to be tackled.

A HIGH Priority if we are to retain the BCP area are a prime tourist and English School

destination and create the liveable environment for a ‘digital’ economy you set out in The

plan.

Give genuine homeless a place to stay

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Also, I hope "prevent rough sleeping" doesn't mean playing bagpipe music all night at

the bus interchange or installing bars on benches to prevent people from lying down.

The plan should work with the homeless to get them off the street.

Tackling homelessness would make a huge difference to the area. Would help if we

could identify genuine homeless from the increasing numbers of people begging to

support addiction. Homeless people need support.

Homeless people need a shelter where they can stay, instead of the streets, where they

are offered food and clothing.

It all seems very positive but it's difficult to have a reasoned personal opinion on the plan

when there is no detail about HOW the aims will be accomplished. For example tackling

homelessness and rough sleeping could be good or bad (good if it means providing

more shelters and help for the homeless, bad if the current legal measures are

continued)

Hospitals / health care

Comments about hospitals or health (32 comments), mainly relating to the lack of mention of health

in the plan, the impact of housing development on health services and plans to close Poole A&E

It is difficult to identify the public health agenda within the specific priorities.

I don’t approve of the closure of Poole hospital A & E. There is no way that Bournemouth

has free capacity and this will definitely put lives at risk.

How are you linking with the NHS? No mention of health.

There does not appear to be a reference to healthcare and this is important to our

community too.

Other comments

Questions asked about when services would be harmonised, including planning (and whether

neighbourhood notifications would continue), recycling (would food recycling be offered), services

for people with disabilities are inconsistent across the areas. Communication would be helpful for

residents in these areas.

How do you contact the council? Do you still go to Christchurch Offices? Can you use hubs? Some

email addresses on the website are Bournemouth and not working.

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Respondent Profile

Equalities Questions

Group Category % Frequency

Age

Under 24 years 1 26

25 - 34 years 5 91

35 - 44 years 9 183

45 - 54 years 17 326

55 - 64 years 24 461

65+ years 44 868

Gender Male 53.5 1039

Female 46.5 904

Trans Yes 0.5 9

No 99.5 1843

Sexual Orientation Heterosexual 94 1592

All other sexual orientations 6 109

Ethnicity

White British 94 1732

White Other 4 82

BME 2 37

Religion

No religion 40 704

Christian 55 980

Other religion 5 85

Disability

No 74 1432

Limited a little 19 133

Limited a lot 7 368

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Respondents’ postcode

27

Organisations

90 respondents were representing an organisation, the list of organisations is shown below. 25

respondents who said they responded on behalf of an organisation work for BCP council.

Ansbury Guidance BH11 Area Support Group & Day Coach Tours BME community Engagement Bournemouth and Poole Council for Voluntary Service Bournemouth Natural Science Society Bournemouth University Branksome Park & Canford Cliffs Residents Association Charity as part of BCP Voluntary Section Christchurch Men's Shed CIO Chrysalis, transgender support charity Citizens Advice BCP DCCI and Ferndown Chamber for Business Dorset Blind Association Dorset Chamber of Commerce Dorset Council Dorset Healthcare Faithworks Wessex Highcliffe & Walkford Parish Council Highcliffe School Hurting to Healing IEC Limited International Care Network (ICN) NHS Dorset CCG People First Forum PKIC Pokesdown Community Forum Pokesdown Community Forum/Working Group Boscombe & Pokesdown Neighbourhood Plan Poole Agenda 21 Poole Children in Care Council Poole Flag Trust Poole Kids in Care Poole Young Carers Poole Youth Forum Poole-Bournemouth Volleyball Association Public Health Dorset Read Easy Poole Reidsteel (John Reid and Sons Ltd) SafeWise SWL Security Ltd Talbot & Branksome Woods Residents Association Talbot Village Residents Association/Neighbourhood Watch The Arts Development Company The Society for Poole The Town Centre Detached Youth Project Wisdom (Zhihui) Foundation Yellow Buses Young Carers Youth Forum

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5. Staff Panel survey

An online questionnaire was sent out to our Staff Panel. The survey received 64 responses which

were spread across all directorates. Growth and Infrastructure was the most strongly represented

directorate with 10 respondents.

Panel members were shown the Council Plan and for each of the five priorities, they were asked

three questions:

What opportunities do you think that this priority presents?

What challenges, if any, do you think could get in the way of achieving this priority? What

ideas do you have for overcoming these?

How will we know we’ve been successful?

There was a wide range of answers for these questions from the very broad (e.g. ‘we need some

targets’) to some very specific responses relating to a small part of a single service (e.g. a better

bus service from Winton). Where possible, responses have been categorised into broad themes

and some comments covered more than one theme.

Not all respondents answered every question, with some just answering those in which they have a

particular interest or greater knowledge.

Sustainable Environment

Opportunities

There were 60 responses to this question and more than half of them (31) related to Action c)

develop an eco-friendly and active transport network. These comments highlighted a range of

benefits that might arise from this action, such as:

• improved physical and mental health & wellbeing and

• economic benefits arising from making it easier for people to move around the area

Comments also suggested for how this action might be achieved such as:

• better public transport (including buses, trams and trains)

• improved cycling facilities

• park & ride

• making it easier for mobility scooters to get around.

Action f) Maximise access to our high quality parks and open spaces was mentioned by 15

respondents, many of whom mentioned the link between this aim and improvements to health and

wellbeing, as well as bringing communities together.

Fourteen respondents referred to Action a) Sustainability underpins our planning policies. These

comments varied from climate adaption, ensuring that building developments have the infrastructure

in place to support them and insisting on eco-friendly elements to new builds.

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Of the other actions that sit under this priority, natural environment was referred to by 12

respondents, resource management by 10 respondents and climate change by 6 respondents.

The key benefit to this priority, mentioned by 15 respondents, was health and quality of life. Making

the area more attractive to tourists and boosting the economy were each mentioned by 5

respondents while 6 respondents mentioned the opportunity for BCP Council to address its own

working practices including agile working and electric fleet vehicles.

Challenges

There were 58 responses to this question. Costs / finance / investment was considered to be the

main barrier to achieving this priority, mentioned by 23 respondents. Changing culture and attitudes

was also a key barrier, mentioned by 20 respondents. Education and promotion of initiatives was

the most commonly suggested solution, mentioned by 12 respondents.

Success

There were 56 responses to this question. As transport was the most common opportunity

mentioned, the most common measure of success are also to do with transport, with 24

respondents mentioning greater uptake of alternative transport and/or less traffic as the main

indicator of success. Improved air / water quality (12 respondents), landfill / recycling volumes (11

respondents) and increased demand to visit / live / work in the area (7 respondents were the next

most common suggestions.

Dynamic Region

Opportunities

There were 58 responses to this question. Revitalising our high streets was the most commonly

mentioned action under this priority (31 respondents); investing in homes was mentioned 21 times

and creating a digital infrastructure was mentioned 16 times.

In relation to high streets, respondents saw an opportunity to make safe, vibrant spaces with a more

varied retail offer. Building more affordable family homes and more social / council houses were

key opportunities under the housing theme.

Challenges

There were 54 responses to this question. There were few clear themes to the challenges

mentioned. Financial challenges were mentioned most often (12 respondents) and gaining public /

stakeholder support for any changes was mentioned by 8 respondents.

Success

There were 52 responses to this question. Suggested measures of success include more jobs and

businesses in the area (13 respondents), fewer empty shop units / more diverse retail offer (13

respondents), high street footfall (7 respondents) and happier / healthier residents (8 respondents).

Measure relating to housing were split between the number of new homes built (6 respondents), the

quality of homes built e.g. family houses rather than flats (6 respondents) and a reduction in families

on the housing waiting list (4 respondents).

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Connected Communities

Opportunities

There were 49 responses to this question. When considering the opportunities arising from this

priority, respondents’ comments were more holistic rather than relating to specific actions. The key

opportunities identified were better engagement / involvement with our communities (11

respondents), creating a sense of belonging or pride (9 respondents), making better use of

community resources and spaces (8 respondents), improving wellbeing (8 respondents) and

improving social cohesion / reducing crime and ASB (6 respondents).

Challenges

There were 46 responses to this question. Again, the identified challenges were varied with few

clear themes. Lack of police was mentioned by 9 respondents, costs / resources by 7 respondents,

residents’ ability or desire to be involved and tackling prejudice / perceptions by 5 respondents

each. There were many other challenges identified but these were too varied to group into themes.

Success

There were 43 responses to this question. Twelve respondents identified lower crime / ASB as a

measure of success. Seven respondents suggested using data from residents’ surveys and seven

suggested that happier, healthier residents would indicate success. Five suggested more

community involvement in decision making.

Brighter Futures

Opportunities

There were 50 responses to this question. Twelve respondents referred specifically to support for

parents; other responses were more general and few related to specific actions.

Nine respondents mentioned the opportunity to protect and/or expand facilities for children and

young people, such as children’s centres and youth clubs.

Seven respondents mentioned the opportunity to work with children and young people now to help

them grow into engaged, well adjusted adults.

Six respondents said that this priority would create better opportunities and outcomes for young

people.

Challenges

There were 45 responses to this question. Of these, 27 respondents mentioned cost as a barrier to

achieving these aims. There were no other strong themes emerging from this question although

economic / social exclusion, resistance to intervention, lack of control over academy schools and

limited resources for SEND or CAMHS were each mentioned by 4 respondents.

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Success

There were 41 responses to this question. Eighteen suggested that better school results / OFSTED

ratings would be a good measure of success. Eleven suggested fewer children in care or needing

support and ten suggested improved mental health / quality of life.

Other suggested themes include fewer young people committing or falling victim to crime, fewer

NEETs, better access to services / facilities / events, more young people wanting to stay in the area

and regular satisfaction surveys among parents and young people.

Fulfilled Lives

Opportunities

There were 48 responses to this question. Eleven of these related specifically to homelessness and

nine related to happy, active and healthy lifestyles.

Ten respondents saw an opportunity to improve lives. Other responses were varied including

reducing pressure on services, rethinking how we deliver services, tackling drug & alcohol

dependency, reducing crime and ASB and providing volunteering opportunities.

A number of the comments made in this section overlap with aspects of other priorities – investing in

the homes our communities need (Dynamic Region) will have a positive impact on homelessness as

well as enabling people to live safe and independent lives, developing an eco-friendly and active

transport network and maximising access to parks and open spaces (Sustainable Environment) will

promote happy, active and healthy lifestyles.

Challenges

There were 47 responses to this question; 21 of these identified cost / financial investment as a

barrier to achieving this priority. Other identified barriers include resistance to change, the cost and

suitability of housing, changing perceptions, drug & alcohol addiction and providing appropriate care

for elderly residents.

Suggested solutions include rethinking the way we deliver services (including identifying and filling

gaps), working more closely with other agencies and improving access to services (including putting

together individualised ‘packages’ of support).

Success

There were 41 responses to this question. The key measures of success that were identified were

fewer homeless people (19 responses), better physical and mental health (13 responses), improved

happiness / wellbeing (11 responses) and reduced demand on services (8 responses).

Final comments

Respondents were asked if they had any final comments or suggestions about the BCP Council

Plan; 43 respondents made a comment. Some of these were quite general while others addressed

more specific topics. Where appropriate these have been identified as positive, negative or neutral.

There were 17 generally positive comments, 9 were negative and 9 were neutral.

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Some examples of positive comments:

The BCP plan shows we are ambitious for our communities and businesses to grow and

also to encourage development and investment opportunities within the area which can

only be of benefit to us all

I think the intentions behind the plan are great, and the increased emphasis on the

environment, supporting the community as a whole and promoting integration are great

The Council Plan is a good summary document of what BCP stands for and the values

we wish to encourage. Together the values embrace all areas of life and the desire to be

an outstanding council

I think it was set out well and had clear points. It made BCP seem like an organisation I

would like to be involved in if we can implement and achieve these things as a team as

one council together

Some examples of negative comments:

The plan needs external eyes as it appears that someone sat in an office by alone and

wrote a wish list. It lacks personality and passion.

It is broad and very buzzword-y. To the average resident this is another list of well

written ideas, but acting on them is where we fall short. We need to be target and

deadline driven, sharing exactly how we are or want to tackle issues.

Some examples of neutral comments:

I like that it is on a page. I would like to see it saying more about employment - as having

a job is really key to people's wellbeing and is often the way out of a troubled life.

Perhaps also more about partnership - BCP can't do this on our own and should not

always be the lead body in making things happen. A sense check as to what is

achievable by the council given budgetary constraints might be useful; not to say that the

aspirations are wrong just perhaps how they are worded so that the expectation as to

who / how they are delivered is clear.

Lots of good intentions but need to be worked out in practicalities

Some common observations about the plan include that the ‘actions’ are too broad and are more

like ambitions or aspirations, that there is too much jargon and use of buzzwords, that there is

insufficient detail about how actions will be delivered and that delivery of the plan will be dependent

on finances.

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6. Stakeholder engagement events

Two stakeholder events were held for the Community Voluntary Sector, Town and Parish Councils,

Area Forums and Residents’ Association representative. 31 people attended an evening event in

Christchurch and 33 people attended an afternoon event in Poole.

The event started with a presentation from the Leader of the Council and the Chief Executive who

outlined how the Council Plan draft had developed and talked through each of the priorities.

We then asked each table to discuss four questions about each of the priorities this information will

help make any required changes to the draft Plan but also will support the development of the

delivery plan.

1.) What opportunities do you think this priority presents?

2.) What challenges, if any do you think could get in the way of achieving this priority?

3.) What ideas do you have for overcoming the challenges?

4.) Is there anything you feel is missing?

There was an array of responses to each of the questions and some recurring themes have been

summarised below.

It is quite difficult to summarise the stakeholder events feedback as the comments were varied all of

which will be useful in helping to shape the delivery plan. However, one of the main challenges with

all the priorities was the funding available to deliver the actions not only for the Council but partner

organisations as well. There was also a strong message that BCP Council needs to make a

commitment to work and engage with the community voluntary sector, partner organisations, Town

and Parish Councils and residents’ associations in delivering its aspirations.

Sustainable Environment

Opportunities

The main opportunities mentioned for this priority were around sustainable forms of transport and

transport infrastructure. This included an increase of electronic bikes and electronic cars and use of

buses. An opportunity to build new sustainable transport infrastructure including well considered

cycle routes with link places, more charging points for electric cars, the creation of a sustainable,

cleaner and more efficient transport system to encourage a reduction of car use to help reduce

traffic congestion.

An opportunity for new housing and other developments to consider being cycling friendly and

include zero carbon, solar and electronic vehicle charging provision.

One person said that there was an opportunity to provide more disability parking and scooter

parking. Another suggested there was an opportunity to reduce car parking charges particularly for

electronic vehicles.

Challenges

One of the main challenges for this priority that was mentioned was the funding or lack of it and what money does the council have available after delivering its statutory services. Another challenge highlighted by a few participants was the ability to motivate people to change the way they travel. A few comments were made about recycling and waste collection, one charity mentioned without a shop they are not entitled to a tip permit to get rid of unusable donations.

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Ideas for overcoming the challenges

Many of the suggestions were about transport and information including:

• Launching a transport information hub

• Car sharing opportunities to work with big employers re parking & parking spaces.

• Company transport plans

• Waterbus from Poole quay to Mudeford quay, stopping at Bournemouth and Boscombe

piers

• Create a green emissions zone and promote electric vehicles, hydrogen buses and taxis

• Create off-road cycle network to facilitate cycle community & travel (where possible cycle

paths shouldn’t be on roads)

• Create a requirement for minimum electric vehicle charging points in all car parks and a car

parks and minimum 25% in private car parks

• Electric buses, trams, electric cars

• Active practical learning and engagement (e.g. Safewise, wiseability)

A better service from west to east. Not based on going through 2 hubs at Poole and Bournemouth.

Some suggestions were around recycling with one participant suggesting BCP Council could

recycle a lot more things. Another suggested that we allow charities to have free tip permits to get

rid of unusable donations whether they run a shop or not.

One suggestion was to help protect open spaces the council should build gypsy & traveller transit

sites and permanent sites.

Another view was that climate change wasn’t an emergency and that it’s a minority view.

One suggestion was that the wording needed to be more ambitious i.e. instead of cleaner, cleanest.

Anything missing?

The list of issues that participants felt was missing were quite varied so rather than summarising

them the list is included below.

• Change building regs

• Validation check from stakeholders about sustainable environment

• Emissions

• Public transport legislation

• Protect and enhance our outstanding built environment

• Heritage Assets – conservation areas

• The role of the volunteers in maintaining heritage assets e.g. BNES promotion publicity

maintenance of assets

• How will BCP collaborate and link with all other sectors?

• Sustainability in terms of food – encourage self-sustainability through growing own produce

supporting local growers / farmers. Raise awareness of meat consumption and impact on

environment

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Dynamic Region

Opportunities

One of the main themes that was seen as an opportunity for this priority was about modernising

businesses in the area including encouraging flexible working and modernising culture, opportunity

to work differently with all businesses, expertise from businesses is shared.

Another theme was about improving the digital infrastructure and to link up with Bournemouth

University that already has a good reputation for digital technology/excellence.

Others mentioned more investment in roads and connectivity including better connections to and

from the airport.

Challenges

One of the challenges that was mentioned associated with the action revitalise our highstreets was

local businesses taxes and the lack of variety of shops / businesses; too many coffee shops,

generic brands, why are they all being approved?

Another recognised challenge was that some older people are unable to cope with digitalisation-

make sure they have some access to the information they need

There were a few comments about the provision of homes, a challenge being house prices and

young people not being able to get on the property ladder.

Traffic congestion was also seen as a challenge for achieving a dynamic region, “BCP & Dorset as

a whole will not achieve a dynamic economy without better road and rail links to the rest of the

country. Congestion in BCP a major issue effecting the economy.” And another person said that the

green agenda conflicted with the dynamic region priorities/ objectives.

Ideas for overcoming the challenges

Many of the ideas for overcoming challenges were to do with revitalising the highstreets,

suggestions include:

Cheaper car parking

Don’t give planning to any more ‘Castlepoints’ if you want to revitalise the high streets. Also

consider other uses – not just shops

A variety of shops / services or a mixture under one roof? To make use of available retail space (not

sure what at the moment…)

Changing points in car parks at challenged retail area

Empty shops – affordable flats (reduce retail area) (homes, high street)

Compulsory purchase empty hotels if landlords do not do them up

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Anything missing?

The list of issues that participants felt were missing were quite varied so rather than summarising

them the list is included below.

• Keeping university knowledge and expertise within area

• Where is VCSE1 in local economy plans? E.g. LEP, Industrial strategy,

NB local VCSE employ 4.5% of workforce, 1.25% GDP contribute 10%

• Improving modernising public transport, not everybody wants to and can cycle. Train and

bus services are absolutely shocking

• Learning and teaching digital inclusion for all ages

• High street revamp, local businesses = cheap rates.

Connected Communities

Opportunities The main opportunity that was seen by participants for Connected Communities priority was the

strengthening of communities and an opportunity to create a sense of belonging. Another

opportunity is increased engagement opportunities with the community and working together with

community groups.

One participant said that there is an opportunity to make the BCP conurbation more LGBT friendly

by proactively making it safer and more accepting of people who are diverse.

Challenges

A few people commented on the challenges of community and connecting with people who are not

online and others mentioned that one of the challenges was older people connecting with digital

infrastructure.

Others commented on the challenge of bringing different communities together and making

everyone feel a part of BCP.

A couple of participants mentioned lack of resource of other services. One person mentioned lack of

police on the street could be a challenge. Another mentioned the impact of immigration policies on

diversity and ability to staff health services and suggested using the councils influence to lobby for

open immigration policies.

Ideas for overcoming the challenges

Some of the ideas for overcoming the challenges were about working together with the community

voluntary sector and Town and Parish Councils.

• The Council should support the creation of a ‘hub’ where homeless/rough sleepers can

spend time and get advice and help from a variety of agencies

• Betters signposting to services whether provided by the Council or voluntary sector – wealth

of services available – How do we maintain a list of services?

• Link up with faith communities and charities already providing activities to tackle loneliness

and isolation

1 voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector

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• Approach ‘sourcing’ volunteers differently. – ‘Compulsory’ volunteering instead of

incarceration/penalty for offenders. ‘Compulsory’ volunteering for those recovering or

recuperating from conditions or illnesses. ‘Compulsory’ volunteering for those in higher

education. ‘Compulsory’ volunteering through CSR – with structure to how this is

undertaken and what tasks are undertaken (share expertise rather than just painting walls).

• Town councils and parish councils could be more involved.

• Poole/Christchurch /Bournemouth conversations - join together and support local

community activity to support local people and address loneliness, exclusion etc.

• Secured lottery funding to address loneliness and isolation

• Housing – repurposing buildings

• Neighbourhood watch – can work here, but needs more support – also with loneliness and

isolation

• Develop volunteers – more opportunities for them to feel valued e.g. include them in

consultations before options

• Promote elected representative councils including co-operate with existing bodies – civic

other parishes

• Overcoming the loss of identity by creating parish or town councils for Southbourne, Winton,

Poole Town, Lilliput etc.

Anything missing?

The list of issues that participants felt were missing were quite varied so rather than summarising

them the list is included below.

• Hidden disabilities

• Utilise voluntary charitable sectors more

• Voluntary sector awards

• Religion spirituality

• We need to stop saying the Council area in not very ethnically diverse because it is. BCP

has got 12% of the population being BAME and 3 areas of Boscombe has got 30%. Saying

that it is not very diverse re-enforces the exclusion of people from different ethnic groups.

• Mental health and drugs issues

• Community fridge – leftover food available free to community members

• No mention of involvement of multi-religious communities within the area and their

associated leaders.

• Define communities – there are not just geographical

• How is the Council going to work to bring all the agencies together? Health, Police,

Education, Voluntary sector. Also, so we can hold each other to account.

• How are you going to bring communities together? What do you mean by communities?

The voluntary sector is missing here and does a really good job here.

• Please empower volunteer led society and museum organisations to be able to access the

tourist office in Bournemouth. (privatised – can only put leaflets in for £150 a year). I was

told you don’t have more than 1,000 people to an event – no but we do have over 6,000/yr.

• Encourage residents to take social action e.g. volunteer and set up run local VCSE.

Suggest (1) empower a thriving voluntary and community sector. (2) enable volunteering so

people can contribute and improve their well-being.

• Supporting a thriving voluntary sector (business sector mentioned in dynamic region)

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• Town History

• Co-ordination of Charities / help groups to deliver best etc (be joined up)

Brighter Futures

Opportunities

The opportunities recognised for Brighter Future priorities are quite varied. A few participants

mentioned the opportunity to re-evaluate the services for NEETS children and build a better register

of young people requiring support. Others said there was an opportunity to work with parents and

others in the community to support young people. One person mentioned the opportunity for quicker

decisions to be made and not batted about.

Challenges

The main challenge highlighted was a general lack of funding and lack of funding around specific

services such a child mental health needs, school funding and youth services.

One participant said that insecure housing was a challenge for achieving this priority “Children’s

futures can be lighted by being in B+B or insecure accommodation. No stability at home or in

school equals inability to focus on learning. Lack of housing.”

Ideas for overcoming the challenges

Some of the ideas for overcoming the challenges were about working together with other

organisations and re visit how the local authority can engage with the education sector.

• Look at Rhode Island and introduction of Clifton Strengths across county to engage &

empower the whole community.

• Re-visit how the authority can engage and lead school sector (especially transport plans)

against background of academy schools

• Improve mental health services speed of interventions.

• Housing insecurity needs to be addressed by providing affordable rented housing through

the council

• Support/funding for existing good services

• More mentors. E.g. for young teenagers/boys

• Collaborative working amongst schools / DWP/ leaving care services / BCP Council to

identify these young people and find suitable provision

Anything missing?

The list of issues that participants felt were missing were quite varied so rather than summarising

them the list is included below.

• Brighter futures and fulfilled lives should be as one heading.

• To improve all your bullets. Set long term targets for all organisations involved. Joined up

thinking. Link with dynamic regions employers. Aspirations – encouraging young people to

think about the good jobs here for them

• More input and higher profile for both volunteers and voluntary organisation. Promotion of

volunteer groups and volunteering opportunities

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• What’s the ‘cut off’ for a young person? It is important that for example over 25’s who are

still ‘young’/early on in their working life are not missed out and offered the same

opportunities for brighter futures.

• No reference of the voluntary sector, which should be complementing local authority

commitments not replacing or substituting for statutory requirements.

• Need to raise aspiration for children not in care as well

• Highcliffe and other Christchurch schools cannot recruit maths & science teachers- how do

we help?

• Lack of homeless hostels

• Encourage and sponsor the third sector

Fulfilled lives

Opportunities

One of the opportunities for this priority was that it could tackle isolation and loneliness which

appears as an action for Connected Communities. On participant said that there is “the opportunity

through community engagement to drive policy and have a pro-active approach. this will only

happen with true community engagement, and full inclusion.”

Challenges

Funding again came up as one of the main challenges for this priority and achieving the aspirations.

Specific challenges for this priority included the social care and health ticking time bomb, working

poor families whose priority is heating their home and putting food on the table, have lifestyle

choices beyond their means. A couple of participants raised challenges about homelessness

specifically getting homeless people to connect with St Mungos and residents have “uninformed

prejudices based on myths and legends rather than being evidence based.” Another challenge was

that one participant felt there needed to be a long-term commitment to the agreed strategy as it will

take longer than 3-5 years to deliver.

Ideas for overcoming the challenges

Again, some of the ideas for overcoming the challenges were about working together with the

community voluntary sector.

• Encourage diversity and equality. Educate and early intervention

• Revisit exclusion zone for rough sleepers to allow them to get to St Mungos

• Often voluntary sector organisations picking up and supporting these families – support

them! This does not mean just funding – expertise – voluntary time – working together –

resources – publicity etc

• Utilise the skills in the communities and share your skills and resources with communities –

relinquish control – respect communities and their skills and knowledge

• Must have a connected and cohesive approach, including social media and local leisure

centres and sport governing bodies

• The council should support the creating of a ‘hub’ where homeless/rough sleepers can

spend time and get advice and help from a variety of agencies

• Putting together a BCP group to look at all aspects of ‘dementia friendly’ across BCP

• Realistic expectations – engagement – cutting barriers to isolation – getting basics right

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• Encourage volunteering

• Housing problems

Anything missing?

• What about early help for adults?

• Are young carers included? Will the Council support ‘Poole Young Carers Organisation?

No mention of catering for Anti-Social Behaviour

• The one thread is working together with communities accepting a diverse approach to

solving a problem. There is not one ‘Council’ way.

• For many, volunteering helps the ‘happy healthy lifestyle’. Encourage volunteering and

charities who can provide support to Council Officers. Note though – many charities rely on

Council funding to provide such services.

• Hoping ‘quality social care’ includes for blind and partially sighted, hearing impaired, drug

and alcohol abuse and mental health.

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7. Young People’s engagement

BCP Council’s Youth participation workers shared the questionnaire with young people over the

summer. A youth forum event was also held in Poole which 19 young people aged 12-18 attended.

The Chief Executive, Insight Manger and Youth Development Worker - Participation presented and

held a workshop on the draft Council Plan. We asked young people if the Plan resonated with them,

what it means to them and what the council should do under each of the priorities. The feedback will

help make changes to the draft Council Plan and to help inform the delivery plan which will sit under

it.

The overall feedback for the Council Plan was generally positive. The majority of young people

when asked to rate it out of 10 gave it a 7. The things that were important to the group that should

be addressed by the Council included: cleaner streets, safer streets (particularly Poole Bus Station),

Homelessness, involvement of young people in council decision making, transparency of the

council, improve the bus network, affordable housing and for schools to care more about their

students. Protecting the environment was also seen as an important.

When asked about the vision the young people particularly didn’t like the word vibrant but didn’t

suggest an alternative. Some also struggled to define sustainability and dynamic. There were a

couple of comments about Brighter Futures and Fulfilled Lives meaning the same thing.

During the workshop the young people were asked to undertake a series of exercises and the

comments are recorded below.

Vision

What should the overall vision say?

• Local Government should be responsible for funding private ventures e.g. transport, H2

buses and cars

• Happy, Clean, Better – a place for everyone

• Happier, safer and cleaner communities

• Stable, Happy and healthy, community

What do each of the priorities mean to you and what do you think the council should be doing to

achieve this priority?

Sustainable Environment

• Community litter picks

• Refillable water bottle stations

• Notice boards in well visited areas

• Hydrogen buses

• Functioning community

• Role models

• To us it means cutting waste and reducing exploitation of natural resources

• Should not affect people’s day to day lives

• More electric charging points

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• Make it easier for people to walk, cycle and get the bus e.g. more cycle lanes and litter clean

pavements

• Ensure the beach is preserved without damaging the environment

• Look after the environment to sustain it for the future

• Prepare an environment for the future

• Safer to raise a family in the BCP Council area

• Approachable places to go

• Funding for schools, parks and youth centres

• Special watch at Poole Bus Station – most crimes happen in BCP

• BCP to help people with getting jobs

• Cleaner streets

• Safer places – more Police Officers

• Transport – more cycle lanes and greener transport

Dynamic Region

• Varied, modern and future proof the economy

• Support for high streets

• Revitalising town centres (Poole along the line of what has happened in Bournemouth)

• Make more things for us to do that doesn’t cost as much money

• More places for young people to go

• More events

• Discount on housing for young people who return after university

• 11 for jobs

• Shapes of the building

• I don’t know what this means

• Innovate place

• Youth club

• Silent disco

• Bingo nights

• More events for all ages

Connected communities

• More connected

• Beryl Bikes – not just an app so more people can use it

• More size range for beryl bikes / double bikes

• Available to everyone

• Ensure that all three towns feel they are being treated fairly and equally

• Create a sense of independence for different areas. For example, allocate money for local

people to spend on projects they believe in.

Commmunications

• Public Relation Events

• Safety -more lighting, police presence

• More major events

• Group chat for neighbours

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• Beach hut per postcode

• Get to know neighbours

• Appoint a youth event organiser (11-18)

• Approachable youth centres

• Youth events (Upton House), Poole Park, Canford Heath Field

• Increase use of clubs (in and out of school) – do this by creating clubs more friendly to kids

(11-18)

• Create child ambassadors to help the council with the youth community

• Brighter Futures

• Schools – subjects to cover more important things

• Schools – More funding and life skills, CVS, working, lessons on finance and cooking and

law

• Out of school activities – cadets, Poole youth forum, Police cadets, Scouts, Signets

• Work experience – more work for those under 16

• More job opportunities for young adults

• Jobs that can have a career involved

• More involvement for youth members in council decisions for the future

• Look after the environment

• Schools should teach about taxes and house buying

• Ban plastic / alternatives

• Reusable items

• Focussing on the futures for everyone

• Providing opportunities for all ages

• Strengthen future for all ages

• Too much pressure on schools on grades causing mental health problems

• Dyslexic friendly schools

• More youth services

• More groups

• Youth clubs

• Becky (Youth participation worker)

• Youth Parliament

•

• Schools put too much pressure on students to have good grades it causes mental health

problems e.g. leads to suicides.

•

Fulfilled lives

• More affordable free culture

• Ensuring everyone whatever age or ability can do things such as sport

• Provide services for the young people who are the future of today

• I want to be able to move back here when I’m retired

• We want to feel like we will matter when we are classed as senior citizens

• Work experience for all schools

• Schools to make learning more of what you want to do than forced to do

• Elderly meeting

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Is there anything missing?

• Involvement in decision making

• More transparency from local government

• Safety

• Homelessness

• Create a new segment specifically for young people

• More activities, more parks and more services

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8. Written responses

Partner organisations were asked to participate in the Council Plan engagement either by

completing a questionnaire or sending in a written response.

Dorset Chamber of Commerce

The Chief Executive of Dorset Chamber of Commerce provided his views of the draft Plan and his

main observation is that there is little emphasis on supporting economic and business growth and a

heavy focus on the digital economy and sustainability.

His detailed comments can be seen below.

Sustainable Environment

• In the bullet points there is no reference to the business/ commercial environment who have

a huge role to play in this.

• There is no mention of affordable housing which we know is a critical issue for the area and

impacting on business growth as skilled workers can’t afford to buy a home here.

Dynamic Region

• This section doesn’t refer to economic growth which is vital (refers to a “sustainable, vibrant

and inclusive economy”).

• “Supporting our businesses to operate more creatively”. I don’t believe this language will

resonate with businesses and is restrictive. We should be providing support to help

businesses start, grow and prosper.

• There is no mention of supporting our key sectors or high GVA businesses.

• There is no mention of skills at all – in a rapidly changing world where investment in skills is

critical.

• The wording within the circle states “Supporting an innovative digital economy in a great

place to live, learn, work and visit.” This statement seems to imply the focus is on the digital

economy (and how do we define a digital economy?) and limited. Surely this should be

something like “Supporting a vibrant and growing economy in a great place to live, work and

visit.”?

• It’s good to see infrastructure referenced but should this also be “sustainable infrastructure

to support economic growth”?

Christchurch Town Council

Christchurch Town Council held an extraordinary meeting to discuss BCP Council draft Council

Plan.

Members of the Council shared their overall opinions of the Plan and were noted as follows:

• ‘Where it was economically viable to do so’ could be added to each action point.

• Affordability should be struck, so as not to be included as a statement as an ‘opt out’.

• Funding was important to be considered in light of what was affordable.

• Large sums of Government funding were available to carry projects forward before the

budget. Work on good policies with the right improvements was required to go forward, for

example electric buses could develop an environmentally friendly transport network.

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• A Member felt that questions on economy were leading.

Members then debated each priority of the BCP Draft Council Plan and made the following

responses:

Sustainable Environment

This Council strongly supports the development of an eco-friendly transport network for the entire

conurbation. We feel it will go towards tackling climate change whilst preserving our outstanding

natural environment thereby promoting sustainable resource management. This should also include

those areas that were not previously served by public transport.

Dynamic Region

This Council strongly applauds the principles of “Dynamic Region”:

a) for new housing development with renewable energy efficient solutions;

b) this Council promotes sufficient high-quality affordable housing; and

c) whilst developing a secure digital infrastructure BCP Council should take into consideration those

residents who do not have access to digital infrastructure.

Collective Communities

This Council endorses and applauds the BCP Plan as the principle of a “Collective Community”

encapsulates the work that the Town Council has been doing so far.

Brighter Future and Fulfilled Lives

This Council believes that these two discrete elements should be synthesised into one objective and

plan aim due to the degree of overlap between each objective. As currently stated, the two

objectives seemingly try to capture the delivery of social services to the community as a whole,

whereas this should be essentially one neat, concise and inclusive mandate fit for both the older

and younger generations of our society.

Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council

The Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council (HWPC) states that it

“is pleased to be able to give its wholehearted support to the sentiments expressed by

BCP and believes there is little that anyone could object to in terms of desired

outcomes.”. However, the Council go on to note that the document should not be called

a plan and “that it is a set of principles designed to bind together diverse views and

priorities in the different groups and parties that make up the administration”.

The response goes on to suggest how this document should then be turned into a delivery plan

including associated costs.

“How much money will be given to support the digital economy? How much will be

devoted to protecting the Environment? These and many other costings need to be

developed and published in advance and BCP must then hold itself accountable at

the year end for the out-turn.”

In terms of what HWPC sees as the strategic priorities, they are as follows (not in order of priority or

preference)

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• Promoting, improving and reducing the cost of public transport across the BCP area and

looking at all options that contribute to a sustainable environment.

• Ensuring that planning policies are relevant and sustainable and reflect the needs of the

areas.

• Promoting safer and more connected and caring communities especially parts of the area

with a large proportion of elderly and isolated residents.

• Protecting the natural environment and tackling climate change issues and awareness at a

local level.

• Promoting and supporting our high streets in particular and the wider business community in

general to ensure the local economy prospers.

• Investing in our young people to ensure they are equipped with the skills they need to take

advantage of the opportunities open to them.

Dorset Local Nature Partnership (DLNP)

DLNP state that they welcome the opportunity to comment on the BCP Council’s Plan consultation.

They support the inclusion of Sustainable Environment as a specific priority within the council’s plan

and associated actions. They also “wish to note that the area’s environment is a cross cutting issue

which can support the other four priorities – for example by supporting a vibrant environmental and

clean growth economy, as well as reducing isolation, engaging and connecting people of all ages to

their environments and delivering healthy and active lives through access to greenspace and

nature-based wellbeing opportunities.“

Dorset Wildlife Trust

The Director of Conservation at the Dorset Wildlife Trust attended one of the stakeholder events

and provided a written response to the engagement.

“Cllr Slade explained that health and wellbeing and environmental sustainability both came through

very strongly as values to act as ‘golden threads’ through the plan and you will not be surprised to

hear that Dorset Wildlife Trust strongly endorses that approach. Both are very strongly linked, and

our work in the BCP area such as The Great Heath Living Landscape programme has

demonstrated many methods by which people and communities can engage with the natural

environment and improve health and wellbeing at the same time.”

“We strongly support efforts to tackle the climate emergency and were heartened to hear your

words on sustainable transport and digital communications – so often in the past the unique and

special natural environment which lies within and around the BCP area has been seen as a

‘constraint’ to aspirations for major road building, for example, which has set wildlife organisations at

conflict with some councillors and been a barrier to positive collaborative working. DWT looks

forward to working with the new BCP Council, both to take forward this plan, and more specifically

on spatial planning and a future single Local Plan for the area. A clear understanding of the current

value of wildlife sites and species in the Council area, and of the potential for enhancements to

ensure ‘net gain’ for the natural environment will be essential to ensuring positive discussions about

locations for development and integral green infrastructure. We can help with this work and would

welcome further early discussions as the Local Plan work commences.”

“DWT is pleased to see specific mention of parks and open spaces within the plan. Whilst these

areas have many functions, we would suggest that there are a number of ways in which they can be

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enhanced for wildlife, whilst still providing more formal functions such as gardens and sports and

recreational facilities. In many cases these can save money through less intensive site

management. An example would be through less frequent mowing of some areas of open space, to

allow low-growing flowering plants to provide nectar for pollinators. Research led by Bristol

University found that city greenspaces on average support far fewer pollinators than gardens, and

that some simple enhancements could provide major benefits”

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

On behalf of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service we welcome the draft council plan. Our

Service Vision is ‘passionate about changing and saving lives’

To achieve this, we have five priorities:

•Help you to make safer and healthier choices – we want you to be more aware about the risks you

face and support you and your business to be safer. We are committed to improving the wellbeing

of you and your family.

•Protect you and the environment from harm – we will work with you to improve your safety and

reduce the effect that day-to-day hazards and risks can have on you and your environment.

•Be there when you need us – we will continue to provide a professional and prompt response when

an emergency happens.

•Make every penny count – we will continue to be a well-respected and trusted Service, offering

excellent value for money.

•Supporting and developing our people – making sure our staff are at the centre of everything we

do, are well led and have the right knowledge and skills, is crucial to the success of our Service.

All of which are underpinned by a RESPECT framework of values which is an acronym for the way

we want our staff to work.

My only comment is regarding the middle section around Vibrant Communities. This section has the

smallest writing but importantly is about individual impact “with outstanding quality of life where

everyone pays an active role”. My advice is that this section is reconsidered to underline the

importance that each person plays. Change cannot be brought about by the staff and teams alone

and perhaps the public we serve should eb included into each of the priorities to show there is a

place for them to be engaged and make an impact in their community.

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9. DOTs Disability feedback

Background

DOTs Disability has been asked to consult with local disabled people around report on the BCP

Council Plan 2019. DOTs Disability consulted 6 disabled people in a focus group as well as MT

McManus, DOTs Disability Equality Consultant.

Introduction

• This is a “short turn-round” report. Its purpose is to provide initial feedback on the BCP plan,

within the context of the initial consultation.

• The report was compiled, based on discussions with a small number of local disabled

people who were a pan “protected characteristic group”. Notwithstanding these limitations,

there are several issues that have emerged that are key to achieving the aspirations of the

BCP plan and would have positive implications for the accessibility and inclusivity of

engagement generally.

Feedback

The plan is a very high-level strategic document. Its aim is to frame the delivery plan which follows

it. It can be difficult without lead-in time, resources and allied activities which support the strategic

understanding to undertake meaningful engagement at this level. However, the questions raised

within the consultation are important because they will highlight the broad priorities of the

population. We advise that some of the phrases used in the document were “buzz words” and/or not

meaningful to the people who viewed it.

Posing the question “what does “connected communities” mean?”. We recommend: The

development of ongoing strategic and operational Reference Groups (taken from community

representatives across the protected characteristic groups) which is supported to further develop

the skills, knowledge and confidence to support co-production over the four year period. Such an

initiative would both demonstrate commitment and result in accessible and inclusive design. Initially

the Reference Group would participate in detailed strategic consultation on each of the themed

areas.

The inclusion of an auxiliary document, providing both context and some concrete examples for

people to reference, would help understanding and quality of responses to high level strategic

documents.

Without the above there is a substantial risk that an inclusive delivery plan will not be developed and

unintended barriers to work, health, leisure and inclusion will be embedded within the development

and delivery and evaluation structures. We recommend that you consider the extent to which this

work can be co-produced. The benefits of co-production, specifically within the context of the EINA

process, in relation to high quality outputs and outcomes are well documented, especially in terms

of health, wellbeing and community infrastructure. There is potential here for trailblazing a path and

modelling good practice already in existence.

The “info graphic” style of the document, whilst conveying a holistic approach, which is positive for

some people; presents access challenges for people with visual impairments where the colour and

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tonal contrast is poor and specifically for those using screen readers. Many screen readers will

struggle with this format. In addition people with limited literacy, community language users and

those with specific learning difficulties such as Dyslexia, are in many circumstances, going to benefit

from a liner structure. We recommend that in all consultation documents conform to the RNIB See

it Right standards and where “info graphics” are employed, the information is also made available in

a linear format. This reflects good practice in terms of anticipatory reasonable adjustment. It should

be noted that the sole provision of Easy Read is unlikely to constitute a Reasonable Adjustment for

disabled people across all of the impairment groups.

The introduction to the plan mentions BCPs commitments to equality and diversity which are very

welcome, as are specific references to older people and carers within the document. It is noted that

the plan does not mention disabled people, people from the LGBT communities etc. Whilst we

recognise the challenges of referencing all communities within such a document, we strongly

advise that there is significant value in referencing the term “protected characteristic groups,” in this

and all related high level strategic documents. We recommend this because these are the groups

of people most likely to be excluded from the aspirational outcomes sited in the plan. It is key to the

success of the BCP Plan is that the legal obligations of “anticipatory Reasonable Adjustment” are

embedded at a strategic level, in order to leverage high quality engagement, participation and co-

production throughout the development and the delivery phases.

The aspirations of this plan have the potential opportunity to improve the lives of older and disabled

people and those with long term health conditions from across all of the protected characteristic

groups, living, working and visiting BCP. The consultation document contains positive statements

about health, wealth and wellbeing which generally engendered a positive response from those

viewing it, although there was an acknowledgement that to an extent it is obvious that such things

are important for a community and are things which people generally aspire to. People wanted to

talk about specific issues and problems that the plan could help address. We recommend an

ongoing consultation processes which enables people to draw on personal experiences, which can

then be used to provide a link back to how, for example, to deliver a service in a way which works

best for the communities. This could enhance two-way communication throughout this process.

There is an acknowledgement that it will be the work following on from this initial consultation which

will have the potential to improve disabled peoples lives. If there is a commitment from the council to

understand the barriers and solutions across protected characteristic groups and the

intersectionality of experience, then there is a possibility for BCP to develop a reputation as a centre

of excellence and good practice. We recommend a “training refresh” in order to ensure the skills,

knowledge and confidence necessary for inclusive design and delivery are in place throughout the

organisation and that the understanding of Social Model of Disability2, remains embedded as a

values base, thus minimising the risk of the development of “auto-disabling” services, projects and

environments.

2 The poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion experienced by many disabled people is not the inevitable result of their impairments or medical conditions, but rather stems from attitudinal and environmental barriers. This is known as ‘the social model of disability’, and provides a basis for the successful implementation of the duty to promote disability equality. (Disability Equality Duty, Code of Practice, Dec 2006)