In a major step forward for local democracy and community-led planning, last week BCP Council’s Cabinet has unanimously approved the designation of a Neighbourhood Area and the formation of a Neighbourhood Forum for East Cliff & Springbourne,
This milestone follows months of dedicated community engagement, with three consultation processes and over 200 responses – a clear sign of the appetite for greater local influence and collaboration.
For Councillor Sara Armstrong, Green ward councillor for East Cliff & Springbourne, this was an election pledge. She welcomed the decision and paid tribute to the many residents, officers and colleagues who contributed to this achievement.
Sara said: “This is a defining moment for East Cliff and Springbourne. It’s the result of tireless work by local people who care deeply about where they live – people who believe in a better future and want to shape it together.
“To everyone who took part: thank you for your time, your energy, and your belief in this process.”
Neighbourhood Planning empowers communities to influence land use, design and development in their area. It creates a structured, legally recognised platform to bring residents, businesses and organisations together around shared goals.
“This proposal isn’t about drawing lines, it’s about bringing people together,” Cllr Armstrong continued. “We are one community, facing shared challenges and holding shared hopes. This will give us the opportunity to respond collectively to the issues we face – from derelict buildings and anti-social behaviour, to the impact of unregulated Houses in Multiple Occupation and the need for safer, more inclusive neighbourhoods.”
The East Cliff & Springbourne Neighbourhood Forum builds on strong grassroots momentum, and means that a united, forward-looking vision for the area can now be created.