THE leader of one of Christchurch's residents association has labelled the council "inadequate" and "mediocre" over the future authority arrangements.

Jim Biggin, Jumpers and St Catherine's Hill Residents' Association chairman, asked a question of the council at their full meeting on Tuesday, ahead of the result of the referendum.

Speaking to the leader, Cllr David Flagg, he said: "On Tuesday November 28, Hampshire County Council formally informed Christchurch council that it would not take over from Dorset County Council, the provision of first tier local authority functions.

"This has resulted in Christchurch council's inadequate alternative to the plans submitted to the Secretary of State by Future Dorset ceasing to exist.

"We understand that any viable alternative to the Future Dorset proposal must increase the efficiency of local government across the whole of Dorset, make better geographic sense than a Christchurch, Bournemouth, Poole unitary and have consent within Dorset.

"It is not clear to us how joining with Hampshire would have met any of those criteria.

"However, having been afforded the best part of a year to prepare an alternative proposal, have it tested in the public domain and obtain local consent, Christchurch council have failed in that responsibility.

"What steps do you now intend to take to rectify the mediocre performance of the council under your leadership?"

Cllr Flagg responded: "Mr Biggin, I totally refute your unfounded comment regarding a mediocre performance of Christchurch Borough Council and would remind you and the members of Jumpers and St Catherine's Residents Association of the awards this council has recently obtained and the increased workload this council is having to endure due to local government reform.

"I would respectfully remind you that we are currently in the process of a local referendum giving residents the opportunity to have their say.

"And this council voted by a two thirds majority not to support option 2b. Should residents wish to join Bournemouth and Poole your question is irrelevant.

"If they vote 'no' our response would follow through the due process via a task and finish group and full council on January 2.

"And I would confirm this council is fully aware of the criteria required."