PEOPLE across Bournemouth and Poole are being asked how they want to be represented in their communities.

A local government shake-up has been proposed which would see six new parish councils created in Broadstone, Redhill and Northbourne, Boscombe and Pokesdown, and Southbourne.

New town councils would also be created for Poole and Bournemouth under the new proposals.

This comes after community groups, resident associations and individuals submitted their suggestions for how they wanted their communities to be represented in October 2024.

A public consultation on the draft recommendations was launched yesterday (March 31) and everyone is invited to express their views by June 22.

BCP Council leader, councillor Millie Earl, said: “I encourage all residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to take a look at the proposals and have their say.

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“We want to know if the current structure of local governance works for you, and it is important that we hear from as many people as possible.

“You know your area best, and your feedback will help shape the most appropriate way forward to reflect your area’s distinct characteristics and priorities.”

There are four parish councils and a town council in the BCP conurbation already that focus on local priorities, projects, and activities such as improving parks and greenspaces, managing car parks and community centres, providing street furniture, Christmas decorations and community events and entertainment.

The creation of the parish councils could mean residents could have a greater influence, as the new councils would focus solely on their specific areas.

All responses will be considered carefully before a final recommendation is drawn up for a Full Council meeting on October 14.