Portfolio Bethany White

News

Time's Toll: A stark image of Bournemouth Pier's timber landing stages reveals the relentless march of time, with rusted metal floors and decaying wooden bearing witness to years of seaside wear and tear.

THIS IS THE NEWS STORY

Speculation Mounts Over Bournemouth Pier Closure Amid Structural Concerns

Speculation about the closure of Bournemouth Pier for maintenance has intensified following the circulation of photographs revealing alarming deterioration.

Residents captured and shared around images showing rusted metal floors and decaying wooden bearings on the pier's timber landing stages, prompting questions about its safety and future.

In response, Millie Earl, BCP Council's Deputy Leader, sheds light on the situation.

“The successful bid to government for the Levelling Up Fund was £19.9m which includes £9.6m to be spent on the structural pier works as well as upgrading the leisure offering.”

Regarding the timeline, Earl outlined the complexity of the restoration process, citing the need for environmental approvals and tender procedures.

“We hope to appointment a contractor later this year and complete works during 2026.”

Addressing safety concerns and potential closures, Earl assured the public of regular inspections by engineering consultants and the closure of timber landing stages since November 2023 as a precaution and emphasised efforts to keep the pier operational while minimising disruptions.

“There may be times during these works when sections of the Pier may to have to be temporarily closed to ensure safety for all.”

As the council navigates these challenges, residents and visitors await further updates on the fate of this beloved coastal landmark.

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Weather

Despite May's arrival, chilly winds and April showers persist as a mother watches her children play on Sandbanks beach, with her umbrella turning inside out against the blustery weather. Looks like warmer days are still yet to come.

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CHARACTER Study

Blooming Brilliance: Chryssie Coombs, the vibrant owner of Forever Green Florist in Moordown Bournemouth, stands amidst a sea of vibrant blooms, expressing the essence of her floral expertise. For eight years, her family-run establishment has been a cherished local favourite, celebrated for its unrivalled freshness, breathtaking arrangements and Chryssie's contagious passion for all things floral.

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Slideshow

Revolution Bournemouth's Unexpected Closure Shocks Community

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Low Light

Karaoke Thursdays: (Left to right) Josh Coles, Katie Grithins, Anna Thompson, (back right) Hannah Matthews, (front right) Laura West steal the show and belt out their favourite tunes at O'Neill's Bournemouth's Thursday night karaoke, igniting the stage with their infectious energy and melodic talents.

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Award

Success Celebrated: Second-year Communication and Media students ,Connor Wright (left) and Florence Bond (right) rejoice at the Graduate Skills + Award Ceremony 2024, marking their achievement with pride and anticipation for the journey ahead.

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Group

Team Tesco: Eight dedicated Customer Delivery Drivers (left to right) James Broth, Tylor Burgis, Darren Trim, Mark Slate, Thomas Brooke, Tim Marshall, Duncan Tref and (front middle) John Wickes from Tesco's Bournemouth Extra store unite in a collective effort, ensuring timely delivery of customers' orders with efficiency and teamwork at the forefront.

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Feature

Guardians of the Coast: Lifeguards return to Sandbanks Beach in Poole as summer approaches. They stand watch as part of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution's (RNLI) vital beach safety service funded by BCP Council. From March 29th to September 29th, 10am to 6pm, these dedicated professionals ensure the safety of beachgoers along the picturesque coastline.