To receive any public questions, statements or petitions submitted in accordance with the Constitution. Further information on the requirements for submitting these is available to view at the following link:-
https://democracy.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CommitteeID=151&Info=1&bcr=1
The deadline for the submission of public questions is mid-day on Thursday 11 December 2025 [mid-day 3 clear working days before the meeting].
The deadline for the submission of a statement is mid-day on Tuesday 16 December 2025 [mid-day the working day before the meeting].
The deadline for the submission of a petition is Wednesday 3 December 2025 [10 working days before the meeting].
Minutes:
Cabinet was advised that there had been no petitions or statements submitted by members of the public on this occasion, but that three questions had been received in relation to Agenda Item 11 (Improving biodiversity in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) by a member of the public.
Public Questions
Public Question from Tony Hyde read by Democratic services
Can the cabinet explain the basis on which it has assessed and selected the three council-owned sites -Erlin Farm, Millhams Mead. and Solent Meads - given that Solent Meads currently generates guaranteed rental income from tenants, while Erlin Farm and Millham Meads generate no income?
Furthermore can the cabinet clarify how it has taken account of the projected annual value of biodiversity net gain credits at each site given that no assessment have yet been undertaken.
Response by the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, Councillor Andy Hadley
The Council have taken advice from the habitat banking experts Finance Earth, and they analysed some of our suitable greenspaces. The three sites were chosen based on the potential to uplift the Biodiversity of these sites, and the timing of expiry of lease in the case of part of the Solent Meads site.
The detail of the assessments, including estimated value of biodiversity net gain credits are in the appendices tor the Cabinet report under item 11.
Public Question from Tony Hyde read by Democratic services
In relationship to Solent Meads Golf Course, would it not have been better governance to inform the existing tenant that there lease would expire in 2026 and they would have to apply for a new lease through an open tender process, rather than simply informing them that their lease would not be renewed? How does the Cabinet justify this approach in terms of fairness transparency and continuity of income for the council.
Response by the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, Councillor Andy Hadley
It would have been reasonable for a tenant to know when their lease would be expiring, but the tenant was informed of this in a meeting with Officers, and as a consequence he chose to raise a petition, sharing some quite inaccurate information.
Under public sector procurement rules, we are obliged to retender the opportunity at a reasonable frequency, and this provides fairness and transparency to all.
It is open to the existing tenant to reapply.
Public Question from Tony Hyde read by Democratic services
Presently what % of income from Solent Meads Tenant is currently re-invested in Solent Meads and will the tenant revenue be counted towards or offset BNG.
Response by the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, Councillor Andy Hadley
Income from Solent Mead golf contributes to overall Council income and is not ring-fenced or allocated for a specific use, in common with many other tenancies of its type.
The income from the Golf course could not count towards biodiversity net gain.
Public Statements
Public Statement from Abigail McMullen, Chair of the Hengistbury & Wick Residents Association (HENRA) on Agenda Item 11 (Improving biodiversity in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole)
I speak as Chair of the Hengistbury & Wick Residents Association (HENRA), representing 579 members with a strong interest in the future of Solent Meads Golf Course as a vital community facility.
Residents have experienced significant change in recent years. In uncertain times, people value places that support wellbeing, connection, and continuity. Solent Meads is one such place and must remain a community-focused asset.
The course provides safe, inclusive, and affordable outdoor recreation for older people, disabled residents, learners, and families, many of whom have no realistic alternatives. Its flat, well-drained Par 3 layout, high local usage, year-round accessibility, and continued access for walkers make it unique.
Environmental improvement and community use can coexist. Any tender process must protect the course’s core purpose: serving the community. We urge the Council to ensure future arrangements safeguard accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity, working constructively with residents to achieve outcomes that benefit all.
Public Statement from Matthew Steward on Agenda Item 11 (Improving biodiversity in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole)
I speak as a director of Golf for All Ltd, the Leaseholder at Solent Meads Golf for over 22 years and administrator of the petition against the closure of the golf course. When we were informed in November that there would be no more golf at Solent Meads we were outraged on behalf of the people who use the facility.
I started a petition which now has over 8,000 signatures. Solent Meads is not just a golf course it is a social club and is good for the wellbeing of the community. I cannot emphasise strongly enough how important the golf is at Solent Meads and I am pleased that due to the strong opposition from residents and the representation of our local councillors that golf is now back on the table and I ask cabinet members to support the re-tendering of the site so that golf may continue.