Local Power, Financial Pressure, and Regeneration

In this episode we interview Cllr Millie Earl, Leader of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) Council, to explore how local leadership is navigating financial adversity, driving regeneration, and empowering communities.Cllr Earl discusses the council’s strategic vision, including place-based regeneration, community governance reform, and the challenges posed by a significant SEND deficit. She shares her approach to collaborative leadership within the Three Towns Alliance and reflects on how BCP is balancing ambition with fiscal responsibility.Listeners will gain insight into:The realities of leading a unitary authority under financial strain.How BCP is investing in infrastructure and community empowerment.The importance of local decision-making and inclusive governance.