February 17, 2025
News:
Here's a surprise - to me anyway, as I thought the building was probably
listed.
An application has been made to demolish the Lord Bute, and build houses
on the site. (Comments can be made until March 20.)
https://planning.christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk/plandisp.aspx?recno=119999
It's already made the local press.
https://www.advertiserandtimes.co.uk/news/plans-to-demolish-highcliffe-hotel-to-create-new-homes-9404353/
Also in the press is a story about a Walkford man jailed for pulling a
fake gun when caught shoplifting.
https://www.advertiserandtimes.co.uk/news/man-jailed-after-threatening-shop-worker-with-a-fake-gun-9404356/
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February 14, 2025
News:
A reminder - this Sunday is the first Beach Clean of the year
Meet at the Wave Wall at Friars Cliff. 10:30 - 12:30 as usual.
Bargates and Lymington Road get mentioned.
Road works information
More on romance/online dating fraud.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Items include half term events.
BCP Council newsletter
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February 12, 2025
News:
Still no sign of the SGN works in Lymington Road, which were supposed to
start on Monday, and last until the end of March.
These are the works that have caused the delay to the major City Fibre
mayhem through the village.
It looks like we've got lots to come - maybe they are waiting until Spring,
so as to cause much more trouble when the visitors start arriving.
Romance fraud and how to avoid it.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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February 10, 2025
News:
Butcher Joe's - which opens tomorrow, has made the ECHO. Read about Joe Willoughby,
his history and philosophy.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24921230.man-opens-butchery-highcliffe-16-years-trade/?ref=ebln&nid
=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=100225
More on Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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February 7, 2025
News:
Below is the reply I received from the BCP Street Works Team about the
Lymington Road closures that didn't happen - yet!
They will be back at some stage. The other Lymington Road planned works
mentioned (SGN installations) are due to start next week, and will run
until the end of March - nearly six weeks!! (Between Shelley Close and
St. George's Court.)
There is also work planned for Somerford Road (and other locations around
Christchurch).
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Regarding the works set to take place on Lymington Road, originally, City
Fibre submitted a permit that was granted for works to occur between 13th
Jan and 7th Feb as you said.
However, the works were cancelled, and City Fibre submitted a request on
the 17th Jan, for works to instead take place between the 20th Jan and
14th Feb. This request was refused as SGN are due to start works further
along Lymington Road on the 10th Feb and there would be a clash of works.
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Road works information
Butcher Joe's - the new butcher at 358 Lymington Road, opens on Tuesday (February 11). Fruit and veg will also be stocked.
Three subjects included, included the rise in the Police precept.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
The February 2025 edition of OUR NEWS is here
Highlights include:
* Guidance on spotting Romance fraud and scams
* SimpliSafe demonstrates the importance of Professional Monitoring when
it comes to home security
* Phonely provides answers and information on how to prevent scam calls with their services
* We celebrate a decade of partnership with Patlock!
What's on in libraries. Quite a lot it seems.
BCP Council newsletter
Changes: HRA Quiz Night added to What's On
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February 1, 2025
News:
I'm trying to find out why the well publicised works in Lymington Road
haven't started. There are other planned works nearby, including the closure
of Bargates, which will make delays in Christchurch inevitable (see link
below).
Road works information
Traffic delays in Chrustchurch this month.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24902052.christchurch-serious-traffic-issues-expected/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=010225
More on the battle against knife crime.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
An interesting collection of articles.
BCP Council newsletter
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February 5, 2025
News:
For boat owners, Harbour Watch are holding a FREE Security Afloat Day next
month. Free, but tickets required.
Also a warning of Valentine's Day chocolate scam.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Noisy Lobster will reopen on February 6, following refurbishment.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24884766.noisy-lobster-set-re-open-major-refurbishment/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=260125.
Changes coming for recycling service for businesses and workplaces across
the BCP Council area.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24888198.new-rules-recycling-start-bcp-end-march/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=280125
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February 2, 2025
News:
As expected, another application has been submitted for the woodland at
Jesmond Avenue.
This one is for nine houses, and seeks "permission in principle".
Consultation peiod end on February 6, so only a couple of weeks to add
your comments. (Don't forget you have to hit the Accept Terms and Conditions
button, at bottom left of the page.)
https://planning.christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk/plandisp.aspx?recno=120047
While on planning matters, I'm pleased to see that The Beach Hut Cafe has
been granted permission to improve the (sometimes covered) patio area,
https://planning.christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk/plandisp.aspx?recno=119972
We all know about the Lymington Road works (and the published end date
is probably optimistic to say the least, as the works started late). There
are one or two others around the area to be aware of as well.
Road works information
More on the Booking.com scam doing the rounds.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Wide range of subjects in this one.
BCP Newsletter
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January 21, 2025
News:
The Lymington Road works, which have now started (around the car park entrance)
are generating considerable activity.
Councillor Andy Martin has sent an angry emaial to the Streetworks team and manager seeking clarification and more information,
Given that the road will be closed to all except emergency vehicles, so
no deliveries to businesses, and the possibility that access might be denied
to homes and shops, i'll give you the reply Cllr Martin received from the
BCP Council official,
Sophie Garrett, Network Permit Officer, Planning and Transport.
"I can confirm that the TTRO closes only one of the two car park entrances,
and the parking bay suspension will only be used in sections as when needed
to provide pedestrian walkways within temporary signals, it will not be
the whole high street at once.
Works were originally due to start on 13/01, but due to the emergency gas escape that also had lights, we had to delay City Fibre’s start. They will be working 09:30-16:30 with multi-way signals between now and up to 7th Feb. The TTRO advert should have been publicised twice and letter drops sent to affected businesses and residents.
Our NRSWA inspectors John and Rob are keeping an eye on works as they take
place to ensure compliance."
As I understand it, the statement that residents and businesses received
letters is not true. It wasn't until posters appeared on Thursday last
week, that they had any idea of the situation
Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council is discussing the matter at Wednesday's
meeting.
I remind everyone that one of Councillor Martin's responsibilities is Portfolio
Holder for Complaints.
Andy can be reached at Andy.Martin@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Witness appeal following an assault/
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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January 20, 2025
News:
As some noticed, there was a problem with the BCP link yesterday.
In fact the whole page was corrupted, and had to be rebuilt.
All is fine now and working properly, including the BCP newsleter link.
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January 19, 2025
News:
Yet more on the PCC's request for more money.
"You’re invited to have an in-depth discussion with the Dorset Police
and Crime Commissioner about this year’s policing precept."
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Following the announcement of upcoming road works in Lymington Road, residents
and businesses have only received details over the last couple of days,
and not by letter or consultation, but by signs stuck along the route.
There will be no onstreet parking until February 7 at least, but what is
of great concern is the statement
"Access to properties will remain depending on site safety".
Which suggests that residents and business owners may be denied access
to their homes and shops.
More details can be found through the Road Works link posted on Friday.
As expected, the saga of the future of the Jesmond Avenue woodland continues.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24864352.highcliffe-legal-action-launched-ongoing-woodland-dispute/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=180125
Statement on proposed devolution. Other subjects covered ,including support for working parents, and for the Household Support Fund.
BCP Newsletter
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January 17, 2025
News:
Booking.com customers targeted by scammers. Also HMRC tax scams are to
be aware of.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Due to retirement, long time website sponsor Happy Hounds is no longer
available. This also means there is a prome advertising space on this website. Email for more details.
Closure of the main road entrance to Wortley Road car park, and just about
the whole length of Lymington Road, from near the Sports and Social Club
almost to the Recreation Ground.
Road works information
New signs have gone up at the new Butcher Joe's (358 Lymington Road) so
opening fairly soon hopefully.
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January 16, 2025
News:
The final total raised from the Beach Hut Cafe Christmas Day fund raiser was an amazing £11,568.98.
Quite incredible! As usual, the monay will go to Macmillan Caring Locally.
An upcoming webinar on being safe online. It's on Friday at Noon. Okaces
are limited so register quickly.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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January 13, 2025
News:
No Highcliffe businesses in the latest round of hygeine inspections, but
the Nelson Inn in Mudeford received a 1 (needs major improvement) rating.
The only other one nearby was the De Mountain Masala Indian takeaway in Somerford Road, which received a maximum 5 rating.
Still no online presence for Eyan's Mini Market in Lymington Road, but
they do have a phone contact now - 07488 710436.
Highcliffe Beach Bum Blue Tits chill water smimming group added to Community links page.
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January 12, 2025
News:
"Coming soon" is a new butcher. Butcher Joe's is moving into 358 Lymington Road, the old Chris Watson Butcher premises.
There's already a website (and a Facebook page.) https://www.butcherjoes.co.uk/
It looks like the work in the old Co-op shop is complete, for now at least,
as Goadsby's "To Let" signs have appeared.
By the way, there is a rumour (so far unsubstantiated as far as I can telll)
that Morrison's may be interested in the premises.
What's On page has events listed until May (so far). EMAIL to have yours added.
Changes: TUI added to Useful links page. (Their flights and holidays fly from over 21 UK airports, to over 70
destinations.
Food and Drink page, and Village plan updated.
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January 11, 2025
News:
January edition of the Dorset Police for the BCP area.
January Newsletter
Live Q&A with Council leaders next Tuesday. A range of other subjects
as wee, including applying for school places.
BCP Council Newsletter
Why the PCC is asking for more money. Includes another chance to take the
survey.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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January 10, 2025
News:
The January OUR WATCH Neighbourhood Watch newsletter is available.
OUr WATCH January
As we know from this week's temporary traffic lights near Sea Corner, and
the ensueing chaos, only planned road wirks are included in these reports.
This time however, there are several planned works in and around Highcliffe.
Road works information
Public helped the fight against drink/drug drivers.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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January 6, 2025
News:
A free anti scam/fraud phone app we should all have. Plus the PCC wants harsher punishment for drink/drug drivers.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
The 10 most popular New Forest walks.
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/24826342.10-popular-new-forest-walks-revealed-end-year/
?ref=ebln&nid=1092&block=article_block_a&u=fab6ae8e0543ff9b042e6f63e8093797&date=040125
New Forest Botanics have created a new range of products on sale in Highcliffe
Castle’s gift shop.
https://www.advertiserandtimes.co.uk/news/castle-fragrances-make-perfect-scents-for-forest-firm-9398404/
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January 4, 2025
News:
The link to the survey on the Dorset Police precept in the Neighbourhood
Alert page is finally fixed.
However, you can also take the survey below:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Precept25DorsetAlert
Yet again, nothing planned for us next week. (I hope it's not calm before
a storm.)
Road works information
New Year bin collection changes - better late than never. Several other
subjects covered as well - take a look.
BCP Council Newsletter
Police are looking for the views of remale runners, to better understand
harassment.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
What's on news, including lots of talks in various libraries.
BCP Council Newsletter
The Highcliffe Music Festival is at risk of not being held this year. A sitation not helped at all by the disbanding of the HAT (Highcliffe Action Team).
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24837699.popular-cliff-top-music-festival-risk-not-returning/
?ref=eb&nid=477&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=100125
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January 3, 2025
News:
The link to the survey on the Dorset Police precept in yesterday's Neighbourhood Alert page
was invalid. The correct link is now in place.
Changes:
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January 2, 2025
News:
Happy New Year Everyone!
Shopfitters are shredding the inside of Ludlams (soon to be Highcliffe
News).
The new owner, who also owns other businesses, such as Barton News, is
applying for a license to sell alccohol seven days a week, until late.
I cannot yet find the application on the Council website, but I'll add a link when it appears, so we can all see exactly what the plan is.
As usual, large numbers turned out on Christmas morning for the Beach Hut
Cafe charity event.
An amazing £7000 was raised in just two hours, a figure which has already
grown considerably as donations (and sales of the Cafe's calendar, showing
superb photos of the local beach/sea) are coming in from people who could
not make the actual event.
As always, all proceeds will go to Macmillan Caring Locally.
It looks like Winter is about to arrive in earnest thia weekend. A yellow
warning suggests we may even get some snow.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24827244.yellow-weather-warning-issued-snow-across-dorset/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=020125
A reminder. Have your say on the plan to increase the Dorset Police precept.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
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December 28, 2024
News:
Highcliffe Dental Practice (in Diana Court, opposite The Globe) has been rated "Excellent"
by the Care Quality Commission.
Changes:
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December 24, 2024
News:
Crackdown on drink and drug affected drivers over the festive period -
random stops included.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
It is not just the sign that's changing at Ludlam's Newsagent. Yesterday
workmen were replaceing the whole of the shop frontage.
Pebbles Custom Bathrooms (at 406 Lymington Road) now has a website (and other contact inforamtion).
Changes: Homes page updated.
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December 20, 2024
News:
CCTV appeal following thefts in Christchurch. Also a witness appeal following
suspected arson in Christchurch. Also a survey about the police precept
- can it really be a year since we had this offer?.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Nothing planned for this area at all. Plenty in Bournemouth and Pole though.
Road works information
BCP services and opening hours over festive period. Also other matters
covered.
BCP Council Newsletter
Transforming travel news.
BCP Council Newsletter
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December 13, 2024
News:
Protect yourself against fraud this Christmas.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Nothing for us on the planned list this week. New Milton is a pain at the
moment though, with Old Milton Road closed for gas works..
Road works information
Previously mentioned Eyan Mini Market is now open (at 354 Lymington Road).
While on the subject of businesses, I notice that Crystal World (at 353 Lymington Road) has a new website.
An interesting range of goods on offer (and some useful services). Might
be worth a look if you are stuck for Christmas gift ideas.
Of particulaat interest if you have young children
BCP Council Newsletter
As usual, the various churches in Highcliffe come together at this time
of year. Below is what's planned this month.
https://www.stmarkshighcliffe.org.uk/uploads/library/News/christmas1.jpg?1732700393032
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December 11, 2024
News:
Witness appeal following a suspicious fire.
Working with STARS Dorset (Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services).
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Christmas period waste collection changes.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24784250.changes-dorset-bin-collections-festive-period/
?ref=ebln&nid=960&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=111224
Anyone who ever heads for the A35 from New Milton can forget it until March.
The road through Bashley is to be completely closed for three months starting
on January 6,
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24781009.new-milton-road-will-see-closure-3-months-due-gasworks/?ref=
ebmpn&nid=962&block=article_block_a&u=aff34a2f55addc9507adb1b7e0da35f2&date=101224
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December 7, 2024
News:
Lots of arrests in the latest Operation Scorpion drugs crackdown
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Somerford Road (near Purewell Roundabout) until Secember 12, and temporary
lights in Stoney Lane are the only news works (planned) this week.
Road works information
Christmas waste collection changes..Several other subjects covered, including
household food and energy bills support still being available.
BCP Council Newsletter
A fresh weather warning for Storm Darraghhas been issued for tomorrow.
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/24779068.storm-darragh-new-weather-warning-bcp-sunday/?ref=ebbn&nid=1324
Planning permission has been granted to change the long vacant 338 Lymington
Road (next to Big Wigs bakery) into a food takeaway utlet.
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December 5, 2024
News:
Cyber crime survey from Neighbourhood Watch.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
Another yellow weather warning for the weekend.
The Met Office has warned that between 3pm Friday December 6 and 6am Sunday
December 8, there will be strong winds (50mph) and heavy rains that could
bring disruption.
Library news and events.
BCP Council Newsletter
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December 2, 2024
News:
Report drink and/or drug drivers.
Neighbourhood Alert page updated
A bit misleading yesterday - Eyan Mini Market is not open yet - they are still stocking up.
Neighbourhood Watch December newsletter now available.
Lots of good stoff in this one.
Talking of Neighbourhood Watch. You can watch their previous webinars,
including those in November on ASB, and anti harassment.
https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/webinars
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