Unauthorised encampment at Queen's Park BH Live

Around 14 caravans and associated vehicles are currently located at Queen's Park BH Live in Queens Park Drive.

BCP Council is aware and is liaising with Dorset Police.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “An unauthorised encampment has formed consisting of 14 living units and associated vehicles at Queens Park BH Live, Queens Park Drive.

“Our staff will be visiting site to carry out the statutory welfare and educational needs assessment, along with any necessary risk assessments in order to determine the level of support to be given to the group. We are liaising with Dorset Police.

“We will be visiting, liaising with and monitoring the site going forward.”

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "Dorset Police received a report at 11.35pm on Wednesday 8 June 2022 relating to an unauthorised encampment in Queens Park South Drive in Bournemouth.

"Officers have attended the site and are liaising with those present as well as the local authority.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and work with our local partners and will take appropriate further action if required."

Queen's Park Leisure Centre has been closed for many months.

A statement on the BH Live website says the centre is currently closed and it is "committed to reopening during 2022" ahead of which a number of repairs will be carried out. 

The statement adds: "Our investment plans, and schedule for reopening, continue to be affected by ongoing industry-wide challenges.

"These include the impact of the pandemic on trading, changes to consumer demand and confidence, the increasing costs of carrying out the necessary investment and affordability, recruitment, and disruption to equipment supply and specialist contractors.

"We will provide updates as the works commence and announce a reopening date as soon as these works near completion."

As reported by the Echo last year, BCP Council backed out of plans BCP Council to acquire Queen’s Park Leisure Centre. 

More follows.