BOROUGH NE WS
Summer 2026
ea stleigh. gov.uk
Borough set for a spectacular Summer
There’s an events-packed season shaping up for residents and visitors - and much of it is free!
Fabulous festivals
Launching into the skies in early June is Unwrapped Festival featuring the extraordinary aerial act Autin Dance Theatre, who’ll dazzle audiences with breathtaking acrobatics. The much-loved family-friendly festival of outdoor entertainment, produced by The Point, takes place across Eastleigh town centre, Hedge End and Netley.
In July, Eastleigh Mela is a vibrant celebration bringing together all the Borough’s communities in a dazzling fusion of sounds, flavours and spectacle.
Eastleigh Pride brings colour, community, and celebration to the heart of the town in September, uniting people in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility.
And don’t miss the Feastleigh food and drink fiesta, the Eastleigh Summer Festival and the West End Family Fun Day
Great music
Gather your friends for The Point’s Summer Social that brings live music acts to Leigh Road Recreation Ground on Friday evenings in July and August!
Live outdoor music also returns to Itchen Valley Country Park, our much-loved green space in West End. Queen by Moonlight is already a sell-out, but look out for another outdoor musical extravaganza when The Pirates of Penzance sail into the park in September.
Keeping active
The Walking and Wheeling Festival invites residents to step outside and explore the rich history of the Borough, with opportunities to discover local areas on foot, by wheelchair, or mobility aid.
Young people can take part in an exciting range of sports and activities in the Summer Eastleigh Active programme.
Or why not book onto The Point's free family friendly adventure, Spitfire Street, an interactive walking performance that celebrates Eastleigh’s aviation heritage.
For the energetic, Dash Together: Itchen Valley Summer Challenge brings together runners of all abilities. for fitness, fun, and fresh air.
The Country Park also hosts a Teddy Bears Picnic, a free falconry display and the Great Big Green Week celebration of local wildlife.
More details can be found inside or keep up-to-date at eastleigh.gov.uk/ upcoming-events
Pictured: Bin Rat - The Last BaguetteUnwrapped Festival.
Our focus
As a Council, we are focused on improving the quality of life of everyone living and working in the Borough, both now and in the future.
Enabling a healthier Eastleigh
We want all residents and visitors to the Borough to live long, healthy and happy lives and so we are focused on improving health and wellbeing and reducing socio-economic and health inequality.
Protecting our environment
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Maintaining and creating an attractive and sustainable environment that is valued, and which can allow residents, visitors and nature to flourish.
Shaping places
Creating and enhancing places where residents and businesses can thrive.
It is about ensuring that our neighbourhoods, buildings and spaces work well for everyone and that our places are attractive, vibrant, distinctive and safe.
Creating homes & communities
To help support a buoyant housing market we are delivering high-quality homes of all tenures to provide opportunities for people looking for affordable rent, or a new home to meet the diverse needs of residents. We are also co-creating communities, alongside housing development, by delivering infrastructure, employment, leisure and open spaces.
Cycling to school helps drive for cleaner air across the Borough
Reducing emissions and promoting healthier lifestyles
The connection between active travel and cleaner air is at the heart of a growing effort across Eastleigh, as schools and the Council work together to reduce emissions and promote healthier lifestyles. Encouraging more journeys by bike not only benefits young people’s wellbeing but also helps cut congestion and improve air quality, particularly during busy school-run times.
Schools are playing an important role in a wider Council initiative to improve air quality across the Borough, supported by Defra’s Air Quality Grant. Building on previous cycling and clean air projects, practical improvements are making sustainable travel a more accessible choice for families.
At Crestwood Community School’s Shakespeare Campus, bike storage spaces have been expanded by more than double, making it easier for pupils and staff to cycle to school. The upgrade supports efforts to reduce car use while promoting healthier, more independent travel habits.
Nearby, Norwood Primary and Preschool has also doubled its cycle storage, giving more families the opportunity to choose greener ways to travel.
At Eastleigh Borough Council, we are committed to creating a comprehensive network of cycle routes across the Borough. In total, there are approximately 71km of designated cycle routes, supported by over 40 locations offering cycle parking facilities.
These ongoing improvements, alongside work in schools and communities, are helping to make active travel a safer, easier, and more attractive choice for everyone, supporting cleaner air, healthier lifestyles, and a more sustainable future for Eastleigh.
Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/air-quality
Pictured: Staff from Eastleigh Borough Council, Pollution Control Manager, Andre and Pollution Control Specialist, Yacklin, along with students and Deputy Headteacher Shakespeare Campus, Steve Topazio and Headteacher of Crestwood Community School, Krista Dawkins.
Walking and Wheeling Festival back this summer
The Council has again partnered with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to deliver the Borough’s four-week Walking & Wheeling Festival to help residents ‘Walk, Wheel and Connect’.
The festival launches on Thursday 17 August and ends on Sunday 13 September and is bookended with a special double Spitfire-themed event for families: Spitfire Street, created by The Point Eastleigh is an interactive guided adventure that will take place at Lakeside Country Park on 17 August to launch the festival,
and at Boorley Park on 13 September to close it.
Funded by Hampshire County Council, local organisations, artists and volunteers are providing free led and self-led routes to explore the Borough by foot, wheelchair and mobility aid. They cover a range of themes, lengths, locations and access needs - so there is a route to suit everyone!
Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/ EastleighWWFest
Eastleigh Active celebrates continued success in its fourth year
Over 300 young people got moving this Easter!
Eastleigh Active marked another strong Easter of impact, as the community-focused initiative continues to grow in participation and reach across the Borough.
Delivered over six days during the Easter holidays, this year’s programme featured 18 different activities across 55 sessions, offering a wide range of opportunities for over 300 young people to get active and try something new. New additions included Laser Tag, cricket, and the introduction of Big Sister Sessions.
Eastleigh Active provided a safe, welcoming environment where girls could build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy being active; they included girls-only opportunities, such as tennis, football, cricket, and street basketball, ensuring inclusive access and encouraging greater participation.
A key highlight this year was a new partnership with Places Leisure Eastleigh to deliver Big Sister Sessions, an initiative designed to support and inspire girls to take part in sport and physical activity.
A big thank you goes to the local sports clubs, activity providers, leisure facilities and Town and Parish Councils whose support made the programme possible.
The programme will return this summer- from Monday 27 July - Friday 21 August - with even more action-packed activities.
Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/ eastleighactive
Pictured: Children taking part in Easter's Eastleigh Active.
£5pp
SATURDAY 27 JUNE 2PM - 5PM
This event is for girls aged 9-15 to enjoy an afternoon of fun!
Explore our pool inflatable, Big Sister taster sessions, art sessions, hair braiding, gym tasters and much more...
Book via the Places Leisure APP(in the event tab) at Places Leisure Eastleigh
Eco-friendly events venue comes out of hiding
The Hide space for hire for families and organisations alike celebrates its official launch with tempting discounts at Itchen Valley Country Park
The Hide is the perfect ‘outside-in’ space for meetings, workshops, children's parties and family events. It sits in the heart of the country park in West End in beautiful green surroundings - and with green credentials.
The venue is designed to connect people with nature and the outdoors, building adventure into their events. With panoramic views of High Hill Field, the facility offers a flexible and fully accessible environment with modern touches, and all within a beautifully natural local setting.
As an eco-building, The Hide is designed for comfort as well as sustainability. It is supported
by air-source and solar technology, with climate control. Better still, every booking directly supports the Itchen Valley Country Park’s conservation projects and community activities, so your event gives something back to nature.
Discounted packages from £15 per hour are now available for family, charity, community and business events taking place before April 2027.
For more info or to book:
Mayor opens refurbished bowling green at Fleming Park
Members of Fleming Park and Parkside Bowling Clubs came together in April to celebrate the official opening of their new Council-funded artificial bowling green; the ceremony was performed by the Mayor of Eastleigh, Cllr Janice Asman.
The previous green was very worn and uneven and was further damaged by a fire in 2022, limiting its use. Funding from the Eastleigh Local Area Committee enabled a full refurbishment, including a high-quality artificial carpet installed to World Bowls standards, along with a new tarmac surround to replace uneven paving slabs, improving accessibility and safety for all users.
Forever Active Festival
Thursday 10 September
Cllr Asman, said: “Bowls is a fantastic sport that provides many physical, mental and social wellbeing benefits for those that take part or who are part of a club. I am delighted to have been able to formally open the new green and hope that the bowls clubs and the wider community will enjoy using the facility for many years to come.”
The new surface will enable more frequent play throughout the year and support both clubs’ ambitions to grow their membership and increase community participation.
Members of Fleming Park and Parkside Bowling Clubs
This event is aimed at older adults (50+), attracting new members to the Forever Active programme and raise awareness of the activities that we have on offer. There will be badminton, pickleball, gym tours, chair-based yoga and pilates and aqua fit on offer. Costa Coffee and biscuits will be available on the day at a discounted price, in a designated room for those that attend the event.
More information to follow on the Places Leisure Eastleigh Facebook page. If you are interested, email: enquiries@placesleisureeastleigh.org
Pictured:
Volunteers record major wildlife growth at Stoke Park Farm
Building a clear picture of wildlife across the site since 2024
More than 30 volunteers have been carrying out regular wildlife surveys across Stoke Park Farm since May 2024, generating a detailed picture of its ecological health and biodiversity. Their work has already recorded:
• 29 species of butterflies
• 1,000 butterflies counted
• 95 bird species from 6,784 observations
• 312 species of moth
• 7 species of bat
• 115 plant species
Among the findings are several rare and nationally endangered species, including marsh tit, skylark, firecrest, hobby and barn owl. Volunteers have also recorded purple hairstreak butterflies, Portland ribbon wave moths and multiple bat species, highlighting the importance of the area as a refuge for wildlife.
Alongside monitoring, volunteers have undertaken practical conservation work aimed at improving habitats in sensitive areas. This has included removing invasive Himalayan balsam and clearing redundant plastic tree guards, helping native plants and wildlife to recover and thrive.
Organisers emphasise that systematic monitoring is essential for effective conservation. By establishing a clear baseline of which species are present and in what numbers, surveyors can distinguish normal seasonal fluctuations from genuine population declines or recoveries. This evidence allows conservation efforts to be targeted where they will have the greatest benefit.
Scan the QR code to read our Biodiversity Duty Report
Pictured: a buzzard
BBQ
weather, big matches and smarter recycling this summer
With the chance of warm, sunny weather across the Borough this summer, many households will be making the most of the conditions by firing up the barbecue and gathering with friends and family.
As gardens fill with the smell of grilled food and celebrations, it’s also a great time to think about how we dispose of the extra waste that comes with it.
This summer is shaping up to be an especially busy one, with excitement building ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, when millions will gather for match screenings, watch parties, and community events. With more food, drinks, and celebrations than usual, recycling correctly will make a big difference in keeping our streets clean and sustainable.
Find out more about recycling: eastleigh.gov.uk/recycling
Recycle the right way
What goes where?
• Green recycling bin: Clean cardboard, paper, empty aerosols, drinks cans, and plastic bottles
• Black bin: Soft plastics, mixed packaging, and foil.
• Food waste bin: All leftover food scraps
• Glass recycling box: Glass bottles and jars, plus batteries (these should be placed in a clear bag and put on top of your glass).
Glass is one of the most important materials to recycle correctly, especially during big sporting events when bottle use tends to increase. Please ensure your glass box is not overfilled, as collection crews cannot empty overloaded containers.
National recognition for Shared Prosperity projects
A £1 million raft of projects has been shortlisted for a major national award
Initiatives that have been supported by the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) across the Borough since 2023 are in the running for a Community Engagement Award from MJ Magazine.
Award judges said the Council’s Growing Space, Growing Networks, Growing Wellbeing programme demonstrated “outstanding impact, strong innovation, deep inclusivity, and…clear community-led outcomes and collaboration.”
UKSPF Projects:
Together We Make Eastleigh
This Wayne Hemingwayled engagement involved 284 community groups and attracted 2,500 responses from residents, visitors and
businesses to shape the future of Eastleigh Town Centre. Schemes include public art in the form of colourful bus station windows and eyecatching murals; a feasibility study to improve High Street and Market Street, and an upcoming place marketing strategy.
Food education
Over 400 families took part in cooking sessions promoting budget-friendly and nutritional food. Older residents created a nostalgic recipe book, and grow-your-own projects and a Borough-wide partnership were set up to improve access to free and low-cost food.
Volunteering Eastleigh Support was provided to create new walking groups and more. An apprenticeship
Hat in the ring for Town of Culture
Together We Make Eastleigh partners recently unveiled an ambitious vision in their bid to become the UK’s first Town of Culture. It celebrates the town’s remarkable history of innovation, community spirit and creativity.
We want to thank all the local businesses and community groups for their responses in support of the bid. Competition across the UK is strong, but the Eastleigh team have had some wins already, with partners forging valuable links for future projects.
We’re waiting to hear back about our expression of interest later this year.
New blue plaque for Allbrook
programme trained three countryside rangers who are now employed in full-time positions.
CycleTogether Eastleigh Fun and safe cycle training and opportunities were offered, with 684 attendances so far. The project now has fresh external funding to 2028.
Plant Eastleigh Nine-thousand trees have been planted across the Borough by tree rangers and volunteers, improving 27.5 hectares of green space.
And there’s much more - from a refurbished kitchen for Pilands Community Centre, improved access to green spaces, and research into outdoor performance.
A pioneering female portrait artist, who lived at Allbrook, was commemorated by the National Blue Plaque Scheme, at a recent unveiling event.
Mary Beale worked as a professional portrait painter from the Restoration period (from1660) during the reign of King Charles II, to her death in 1699. She was thought to be self-taught and broke ground as one of the first British female artists to support her household with her artist income.
Nominated by Eastleigh Borough Council, Mary Beale (who was born in 1633) now stands as the earliest recipient of a national blue plaque, awarded by Historic
England. She and her family relocated to Allbrook Farmhouse from London in 1664 to escape the plague.
Mary was also a writer, composing the 'Essay on Friendship' at Allbrook. It put forward the then radical idea of equality of men and women, both in friendship and marriage.
Pictured: Mayor of Eastleigh, Cllr Richard Gomer, home owner Jo, along with Councillors and staff from Eastleigh Borough Council, as well as representatives from Historic England, Allbrook Parish Council and local history societies.
The Point celebrates 30 Years with open day
This year marks the 30th Anniversary of The Point, Eastleigh, a much loved cultural venue at the heart of the Borough’s creative life. To celebrate this milestone, The Point will host a Special Anniversary Open Day, on Saturday 12 September, inviting residents to explore the building, take part in activities and celebrate three decades of creativity, community and cultural connection.
Developed in 1996 with one of the UK’s first National Lottery grants, The Point combines modern creative spaces with a rich heritage. Its main auditorium sits within Eastleigh’s original Town Hall, dating back to the late 1800s, while the Studio Theatre was once part of the town library. A major expansion in 2009 introduced the Creation Space, carefully blending new facilities with historic architecture. In recognition of its artistic and community impact, The Point became an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation in 2015.
Today, The Point is home to a main theatre, dance studio, studio theatre, Creation Space and meeting rooms, hosting performances, classes, workshops and community events. The venue is committed to bringing people together through creativity, while
prioritising wellbeing, inclusion and environmental sustainability.
The anniversary open day will reflect this broad offer. Visitors can enjoy creative taster sessions in dance, youth theatre and visual arts, observe open rehearsals, and take part in drop-in workshops for families and adults. Community performances will take place throughout the day, showcasing local youth dance groups, choirs and community organisations.
A Sustainability Hub will feature local partners, alongside a Makers Market celebrating work by local artists and craftspeople. Guided building tours will offer behind the scenes access, complemented by heritage displays, archives and a '30 Years of The Point' timeline.
To finish the celebrations, the café will serve special anniversary treats, there will be a raffle, and photo opportunities marking 30 years of The Point.
Visit thepointeastleigh.co.uk for all the 30th anniversary events happening across the year.
Council welcomes sector-leading tenant to key commercial property
Eastleigh Borough Council has welcomed a new tenant to a key property in its commercial portfolio.
Yunex Traffic, a global leader in intelligent traffic systems, has signed a lease for up to 20 years at the authority’s 1 Viscount Road unit, located at the Aviation Business Park, close to Bournemouth Airport.
The company develops and manufactures innovative technologies and services making mobility safer, more efficient, and more sustainable, helping move people, connect communities and support a more sustainable world. Their UK operations design, build and service a wide range of technologies for both national and international projects including traffic signals, enforcement solutions and intelligent software applications used by local authorities nationwide.
Yunex Traffic UK will relocate from two sites in Poole into the single 158,370 sq ft property. Completed in 2014, 1 Viscount Road is a purpose-built industrial/ warehouse unit and offers excellent transport links.
Ali Mew, Head of Property at Eastleigh Borough Council, said: “The letting of 1 Viscount Road to Yunex Limited is the latest chapter in Eastleigh Borough Council continuing to secure high-quality tenants into its diverse investment portfolio. It is a testament to the quality of the asset that Yunex have made this commitment and investment.”
More information about Eastleigh Borough Council’s commercial property offer can be found at: eastleigh.gov.uk/ business
Enjoy the shade at the paddling pool this summer
Families can now enjoy Eastleigh’s popular Fleming Park paddling pool even more this summer, with recently installed public art that doubles up as sunshades.
As part of upgrades to the pool, play area, trees and groundworks, the new sunshades are the ‘cherry on top’ of the programme of improvements.
After running creative sessions for local residents in the Fleming Park area last summer, artists Denman + Gould took to creating replacements for the dated
umbrella shades at the site, from their studio in Sherborne, Dorset.
Their designs are inspired by plant cells, use sustainable materials, and intend to maximise available shade overlapping with the new tree canopy as it grows.
The project is funded using developers’ contributions for public art in Eastleigh.
Artists, Eleanor Goulding and Russell Denman
TO LET
Are you or someone you know looking for commercial space in the Borough? Eastleigh Borough Council offer a range of commercial properties to let, including industrial units, office, and retail spaces to support local businesses and organisations.
Explore the available commercial properties to rent at eastleigh.gov.uk/commercialproperty or call 023 8068 8000
Email: commercialproperty@eastleigh.gov.uk
Community consultation inspires Tree and Bee habitat sculptures
Residents from Fair Oak and Bishopstoke have been coming together for creative workshops that invite people to slow down, listen closely to nature, and help shape a new wildlife-focused public art project.
Local artist Amanda Moore and Gobbledegook Theatre led the sessions as part of a project designing sculptures to support birds, bees and insects as they move through the local landscape.
The functional artworks will act as valuable wildlife habitats, enhancing the Tree and Bee Network of biodiversity ‘stepping stones’ planted across Bishopstoke, Fair Oak and Horton Heath. Participants were encouraged to think of them as motorway service stations for nature -
safe stopping points where birds, bees and bugs could rest, nest and refuel.
Feedback gathered from the workshops has highlighted a shared desire to protect local nature while creating welcoming, thoughtful spaces that encourage people to pause rather than pass through.
Organisers said the consultation plays a crucial role in shaping the final designs of the tree and bee habitat sculptures and will feed directly into the next stage of development, planning the technical design and locations for Amanda’s sculptures.
eastleigh.gov.uk/parksleisure-and-culture/artsand-culture/public-art/ habitat-sculptures
Pictured:
Show homes now open.
Following a fantastic response at the opening weekend, the show homes at The Lower Acre are now open, offering residents the chance to experience a brand-new community taking shape in Horton Heath.
Created by eastbrooke homes, The Lower Acre offers a welcoming mix of homes to buy, through shared ownership, affordable homes and homes to rent, bringing together people at every stage of life who want to feel part of something special.
“As first-time buyers, The Celandine really stood out for us. It feels surprisingly spacious, with loads of natural light, and the layout just works. Knowing it’s close to work but still has a really lovely garden makes it feel like the perfect first step into home ownership.”
First-time buyer, show home visitor
Space to breathe, inside and out.
Set in Horton Heath and surrounded by over 125 acres of green space, The Lower Acre offers nature right on your doorstep.
From woodland walks to landscaped open spaces, it’s a place where everyday life feels calmer and more connected while remaining close to Eastleigh, Southampton and Winchester for work, travel and leisure.
Homes that grow with you.
Life doesn’t stand still and your home should be able to evolve with you.
Homes at The Lower Acre are larger than average, thoughtfully designed and flexible enough to support first steps onto the ladder, busy family life, teenage years, blended families or downsizing, all within the same connected community.
“We were genuinely surprised when we saw the homes; they’re much larger than they look. The kitchens and bathrooms feel really modern and spacious, it exceeded our expectations." Visitor to the opening launch
No hidden costs.
Just a high quality home, designed properly.
“At other new builds you have to pay extra for almost everything. Here, so much is already included that it actually feels like better value and far less stressful.”
Built for the future and lower household bills.
Every home is designed with sustainability in mind, helping support lower household energy bills (subject to usage) and long term efficiency.
All homes include:
• Ground Source Heat Pumps
• Underfloor heating to ground floors
• EV charging points as standard
Smarter energy. Greater comfort. A more future ready way to live.
Now open and already in demand.
The response from the opening weekend has shown just how appealing this new development is. With show homes open now and first residents moving in this summer, now is the perfect time to visit.
Consultation completed on new Horton Heath Primary School
Wild residents thriving at One Horton Heath
A wide range of wildlife is continuing to thrive at One Horton Heath, as work progresses to create a new community.
From bats and barn owls to deer and great crested newts, the site supports a variety of species. Ongoing ecological work is helping to protect these animals and their habitats as the development moves forward.
A dedicated ecologist works closely with the project team to understand what species are present and to plan works carefully around them, including sensitive periods such as bird nesting season.
Four species of bats are known to roost on site, supported by around 60 bat boxes and further dedicated spaces for them, including a maternity roost. More than 30 bird boxes have also been installed, with barn owls using nesting boxes.
Great crested newts are protected through specially created ponds within a dedicated area, which also support other amphibians. Deer, otters and dormice have also been spotted on site.
Features such as mammal tunnels under roads, bee bricks and sustainable drainage ponds are helping wildlife to move through and thrive across the area.
For more information, including short videos about the site’s wildlife, visit the One Horton Heath website or check out social channels. instagram.com/onehortonheath youtube.com/@OneHortonHeath
A public consultation took place in May on proposals for the new Horton Heath primary school, sports pitch, pavilion and allotments within the One Horton Heath development.
The consultation invited feedback on plans for this part of the development, building on the outline planning permission already secured.
The proposed primary school, planned to open in Autumn 2028, will form a key part of the emerging community, alongside new homes, green spaces and infrastructure.
Feedback received is now being reviewed and will help inform the forthcoming Reserved Matters planning application. Thank you to everyone who took part.
Keep up-to-date with the latest news: onehortonheath.co.uk/latest-news
Planting for the future
Volunteers came together at Knowle Park in Fair Oak to plant 400 native trees as part of a community volunteering day linked to the One Horton Heath development.
The event brought together staff and volunteers from Eastleigh Borough Council, Fair Oak Parish Council, The Lower Acre builders, Wates; eastbrooke homes, and the One Horton Heath team. Working side by side, they planted a mix of native species including oak, silver birch, crab apple and rowan.
These trees were chosen because they are well-suited to local conditions and will provide food and shelter for wildlife. Over time, they will help improve biodiversity and strengthen green spaces in the area. The young trees are protected with guards and canes to give them the best chance to establish and grow.
Fair Oak Parish Council Executive Officer, Andy Lowe said: “This Parish Council places huge importance on working alongside residents and volunteers; Knowle Park is a much-loved local space for all to enjoy. Planting native trees like this will make a real difference for wildlife and wholeheartedly supports our environmental policy. It was great to see so many people come together, supported by the One Horton Heath partnership and we are very grateful to everyone who got involved on the day.”
The planting forms part of wider work linked to One Horton Heath to support the environment and create lasting benefits for the local community.
Read more stories like this on the One Horton Heath website: onehortonheath. co.uk/latest-news
Pictured: Barn owl mid-flight at One Horton Heath
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, MUSIC & DANCE HIGHLIGHTS
DISCO FOR GROWN-UPS
13 June, 3pm The Point
RAMBERT SCHOOL SHOWCASE 2026
19 June, 7.30pm The Point
OH WHAT A NIGHT
26 June, 7.30pm The Point
AHH…FREAK OUT!
3 July, 7.30pm The Point
SUMMER SOCIAL
17 July – 14 August, from 6pm The Point
RMB COMEDY: DOUBLE NEW ZEALAND EDINBURGH COMEDY PREVIEWS
4 July, 7.30pm The Point
FAMILY HIGHLIGHTS
UNWRAPPED FESTIVAL
6 June, 10am – 5pm (Leigh Road Recreation Ground, Eastleigh)
7 June, 10am – 5pm (Greta Park, Hedge End)
MAKE A PLAY IN THREE DAYS
AN EVENING WITH HAMPSHIRE YOUTH DANCE COMPANY
21 July, 7.30pm The Berry Theatre
ELO ENCOUNTER
11 September, 7.30pm The Point
COMEDY HIGHLIGHTS
ANYTHING FUNNY
16 June, 21 July & 15 September, 8pm The Point
SCUMMY MUMMIES: HOT MESS
26 June, 7.30pm The Berry Theatre
FILM
INCLUSIVE CINEMA
16 June - Wicked for Good
7 July - The Choral 10.45am The Point
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE
INTEGR8 DANCE OFF 2026
13 & 14 June, 5pm & 6pm The Berry Theatre
3 – 5 August, 9.30am – 4pm (ages 7-10)
25 – 27 August, 9.30am – 4pm (ages 11-15) The Point EVENTS
EASTLEIGH COLLABORATIVE WALK
25 June, 10am The Point
PAUL MARTIN: MY LIFE IN TV WITH Q&A AND EVALUATION EVENT
4 July, 2pm The Point
COMMUNITY LUNCH
10 July, 12pm The Point
NETWORKING EVENT
17 September, 6pm The Point
Office: 023 8065 2333 thepointeastleigh.co.uk The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh SO50 9DE
Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End SO30 4EJ theberrytheatre thepointeastleigh
PLATFORM DANCE ANNUAL SHOW 2026
11 July, 6.30pm The Berry Theatre
FOOTLIGHTS YOUTH THEATRE: BUGSY MALONE
15 – 18 July, 2.30pm & 7.30pm The Berry Theatre
SPOT ON PRODUCTIONS: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT
16 – 19 July, various times The Point
FLORIAN SCHOOL OF DANCE: ONCE UPON A DREAM
25 & 26 July, 1.30pm & 6.30pm The Point
DM STUDIOS: 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SHOW
25 & 26 July, various times The Berry Theatre
CENTRESTAGE PRODUCTIONS
YOUTH THEATRE: SCHOOL OF ROCK
29 July – 1 August, 7.30pm (2.30pm sat matinee)
FRIDAY EVENINGS
17 July – 14 August 6pm Start • 7pm - 9.30pm Live Music
SAT 30 MAY • 11AM - 3PM NETLEY ABBEY CRICKET GROUND
SAT 6 JUNE • 10AM - 5PM EASTLEIGH - LEIGH ROAD REC
SUN 7 JUNE • 10AM - 5PM HEDGE END - GRETA PARK
Celebrating Pride
This year’s Eastleigh Pride takes place on Saturday 5 September
The event, which began in 2017, brings colour, community, and celebration to the heart of the town, uniting people in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility.
During the day, Eastleigh Pride offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, ensuring people of all ages can enjoy the celebrations. The day will include live music, food and shopping stalls, funfair rides, and a dedicated kids’ zone, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for everyone attending.
Its impact reaches beyond Eastleigh, especially as Southampton is to host UK Pride 2027 celebrations, highlighting a shared regional commitment to equality.
Together, these milestones reflect a growing movement across Hampshire to build a more open, supportive, and inclusive future for all.
For more information eastleighpride.org.uk
Pictured: Eastleigh pride 2025.
Photo credit: GRH Vision
Summer events at the Country Parks
Wild about Nature
Sunday 14 June
10.30am - 3pm
A celebration of local wildlife featuring minibeast hunts, moth trap reveal (pre-book), wildlife charity displays and crafts.
Paint & Sip
Friday 19 June
6pm - 8pm • Cost £37
Looking for a fun evening with friends? The painting will be guided by Art with Sian. Includes a small bottle of Prosecco and parking.
Liberty’s Raptors
Saturday 27 June
11.30am & 2pm
Liberty’s Raptors display with flying demonstrations.
listings
Nearly New Market & Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Sunday 5 July
10.30am - 3pm
A family day including a market, Teddy Trail, Teddy Crafts & Stories.
Cyanotype Print Workshop
Sunday 26 July
10am - 12.30pm • Cost £40
Kate Watkins will show you how to make beautiful prints using sunlight.
Frontier Sapiens
Open-air Adventure Film Festival
Saturday 7 August
8.45pm • Cost: from £17.50
Book tickets: www.frontiersapiens. com/southampton-itchen-valleycountry-park.
Nature Guardian Quest
24 July - 30 August
Cost: £5
Complete the quests over the summer and join us for a free medal and craft session on Thursday 27 August. Purchase your Quest Pack from the café.
Wild Wednesdays
See website for dates
10.30am • Cost: £5
Discover the variety of minibeasts living in the woods and meadows.
Craft Workshops
10.30am • Cost £5
Thurs 30 July - Wooden disc insects
Thurs 6 August - Clay mosaic
Thurs 13 August - Mini garden
Thurs 20 August - Bag Printing
Thurs 27 August - Medal & Crafts for Nature Guardians
Bat Detectives
Saturday 5 September • 7.30pm
Cost £10/£7 • Lakeside Country Park
Join a walk with Hampshire Bat Group to detect which bats are flying around.
Sundowner Silent Disco
Saturday 12 September 7pm - 9pm • Cost £8
Dance the night away to pop classics, dance beats and country tunes as the sun goes down on High Field.
Pirates of Penzance
Outdoor Theatre
Saturday 19 September
3pm • Tickets: £18/£10
Join Illyria for an afternoon of glittering wit, razor sharp satire and glorious music.
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Country Parks and Green Spaces News
Unwrapped Festival 2026
Free family fun across the Borough
Summer in Eastleigh kicks off with a vibrant celebration of live performance, creativity and community at Unwrapped Festival 2026 – a free festival for all the family across three locations in the Borough.
Presented by The Point Eastleigh, Unwrapped Festival takes the joy of live theatre and spills it out into public spaces, transforming parks and town centres into welcoming festival venues. With a strong family focus, the programme features highquality, hand-picked performances alongside havea-go creative activities, an arts and crafts market, and a variety of food stalls.
The festival begins with a pop-up event at Netley Abbey Cricket Ground on Saturday 30 May, 11am–3pm, before moving to Leigh Road Recreation Ground, Eastleigh, for the main event on Saturday 6 June, 10am–5pm. Celebrations
continue at Greta Park, Hedge End, on Sunday 7 June, 10am–5pm.
As part of The Point’s 30th Anniversary celebrations, opening the Eastleigh event on 6 June is a spectacular headline performance from Autin Dance Theatre with their breathtaking new aerial production, Up in the Sky. Set around a striking seven-metre circular structure, six incredible performers leap, spin and soar through the air in a joyful and uplifting performance. The spectacle is being co-created with local dancers from Hampshire Youth Dance Company and ORB Youth Dance Co.
Find out more at thepointeastleigh.co.uk/unwrapped
Pictured: Unwrapped Festival performer
Eastleigh Mela celebrates culture, music and community
Eastleigh is once again set to host its vibrant celebration of culture and community as the Eastleigh Mela returns on Sunday 26 July. Bringing together music, dance, food and family-friendly activities, the event promises a lively and inclusive day for visitors of all ages.
The main entertainment will take place on the Park Stage, where a dynamic lineup of performers is already confirmed. Audiences can look forward to electrifying tribute acts honouring the sounds of legends including Elvis Presley and Bob Marley, guaranteed to get the crowd singing along.
Also performing on the Park Stage will be the band Kenwood and the Mixers, alongside popular singing duo Rekha and Parry. Renowned artist Bali Brahmbhatt will add to the musical diversity of the day with a special performance. Hosting the stage will be experienced MC Raj Ghai, keeping the programme running smoothly and the atmosphere buzzing.
In front of the Park Stage, the grassy area will feature additional cultural performances, including Jan Belly and representatives from the Chinese Association of Southampton, offering a rich showcase of community talent and traditions.
The Activities Arena will provide even more excitement throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy performances from baton twirlers, the energetic rhythms of the Swan Samba drummers, and the colourful spectacle of a traditional Dragon Dance.
Alongside the entertainment, the Mela will feature a wide range of stalls. From delicious international food vendors to charity stands and community information stalls, there will be plenty to explore and discover.
With more details still to be confirmed, Eastleigh Mela 2026 is already shaping up to be a highlight of the summer.
For more info
awca-eastleigh.org.uk/mela.html
Photo credit: Leanne Hanna
Hampshire & IoW Police to move into Eastleigh House
Work is under way to bring a public-facing police counter back to Eastleigh town centre after a seven-year absence
Vacant accommodation at the Borough Council offices at Eastleigh House in Upper Market Street is being leased to Hampshire & IOW Constabulary from early this summer.
The former café space on the building’s ground floor will house the public counter and around 80-100 members of police staff will also occupy space on the first and fourth floors. This will see Eastleigh House fully let.
The news comes with the announcement that work to replace
the town centre’s obsolete CCTV system with a new state-of-the-art array, funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, is now complete.
Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, has welcomed the move. He said: “As a council, we’re committed to working with the police on measures to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
“There are clear benefits of having a strong police presence in Eastleigh town centre, and we are pleased to be working in partnership with
the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner to host a new police front counter at Eastleigh House.
“Together with the new array of CCTV cameras that have been rolled out in recent weeks, this is a great illustration of partnership working that supports our communities and businesses and boosts the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors, and we look forward to welcoming them to our building.”
Free Wi-Fi in Eastleigh town centre
Free Wi-Fi is now publicly available in Eastleigh town centre to allow for faster and more secure connections in this retail and community hub.
The Eastleigh Local Area Committee has funded the upgrade which, in addition to making the public Wi-Fi network freely available to town centre visitors, includes the retail hub's footfall counters, which give businesses useful data about visitor numbers.
To access it, visitors should simply find ‘Eastleigh Town Centre Wi-Fi’ in the list of available networks on phones or mobile devices and agree to the terms and conditions.
New CCTV cameras in Eastleigh
New state-of-the-art CCTV cameras are being rolled out in Eastleigh town centre.
They are being erected after £50,000 funding was agreed from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The new technology is replacing the old, outdated system which was no longer fit for purpose.
Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, Cllr Keith House, said:
“It’s good to see the new stateof-the-art CCTV system rolled out in Eastleigh town centre after the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner delivered on funding for the cameras. We have always been very keen to support the lead role of the police on community safety, which is also
a key priority for the Borough Council.
“We already invest in a range of initiatives and, together with the opening of a public-facing police counter in Eastleigh town centre, this signals an even closer working partnership that will benefit our communities, visitors and businesses.”
Navigator Quarter development will boost employment in Eastleigh
A major development, that will bring new business facilities and create jobs in Eastleigh town centre, has been given the go-ahead by Borough Councillors.
They agreed plans for Navigator Quarter, a 84-acre site adjacent to Southampton Airport. It will create up to 92,000 sq m of high-quality business space, supporting as many as 3,000 jobs and delivering significant investment in local infrastructure and sustainable transport. The site is a special economic zone within the Solent Freeport that offers tax and customs incentives to help drive investment and create new jobs.
At April’s meeting of the Eastleigh Local Area Committee, Councillors gave the green light to infrastructure works, including a new access road and utilities, that will pave the way for the phased delivery of the wider site.
Located close the M27, the development will deliver funding for a range of transport improvements, including upgrades to Wide Lane Bridge, Spitfire Roundabout and Wide Lane Roundabout, alongside new pedestrian and cycle links, micro mobility hubs and support for enhanced bus services.
Strong environmental protections are core to the project, including habitat creation, a commitment to biodiversity net gain and sustainable drainage systems to safeguard the nearby River Itchen. All buildings will be required to meet BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards.
The scheme is seen as playing a key role in supporting the Borough’s long term economic growth.
Election results
Following the local elections on Thursday 7 May, there is no change to the political makeup of Eastleigh Borough Council, as all parties held their seats.
Fifteen Councillors (14 Liberal Democrats and one Independent) were elected across 14 wards and the makeup of the Council remains:
• Liberal Democrat – 35
• Conservative – 1
• Independent Group – 3
We’re pleased to welcome two newly elected Councillors - Dave Walker (Chandler’s Ford) and David Berry (West End South).
Dave Walker (pictured right) - A Councillor for Chandler’s Ford ward, Dave Walker was born and raised in Hiltingbury East and is proud to still call it home. He attended Scantabout and Thornden Schools, the same schools as his children. With elderly parents also living in the ward, Dave sees the issues that matter to residents at every stage of life.
Protecting green spaces, improving local services and facilities for young people, and ensuring the community's voice is heard on local matters are all important to him.
Dave is also a Councillor on Chandler's Ford Parish Council.
David Berry (pictured left) - David Berry is the newly elected Councillor for West End South ward, where he has lived for many years and raised his family.
As the current Chair of West End Parish Council, David has strong roots across the area and has built close ties within the local community. He is committed to ensuring that everyone has appropriate access to all Council services.
David works in higher education with responsibility for housing management, resident wellbeing and community living, giving him extensive experience in supporting diverse communities and working collaboratively.
Government announces changes to local councils
The government has published its decision on how local councils in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton will be reorganised.
The government intends to create five unitary councils with targeted boundary changes around Southampton and Portsmouth (Option 1A in the public consultation). This is the place-based model we have supported: services close to communities, with councils large enough to be sustainable.
The change will see Eastleigh and Southampton come together with the parishes of Chilworth, Fawley, Hythe and Dibden, Marchwood, Nursling and Rownhams, Totton and Eling, and Valley Park to create a new South West Hampshire unitary authority:
Eastleigh Borough Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: “It is great news that the government has decided to move forward with our preferred option to restructure the councils across Hampshire.
“Our priority in this local government reorganisation has been to do what is right for the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. We want to ensure that their communities are well represented, their vital local services are protected and can face the challenges of the future and their councils are financially resilient and represent good value for money.
“Now we will work positively and constructively with all the councils in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to make the transition as smooth as possible for the people we all serve.”
New Eastleigh Town Council goes live
The larger decision-making body for the centre of Eastleigh town and the area to the immediate north went live in April, with elections for its first Councillors taking place in May.
The new Eastleigh Town Council is a merger of the former Eastleigh Town Council and Boyatt Wood Parish Council. The community governance review (CGR) to create the new authority, which is the first tier of local democracy, was signed off by Borough Councillors in November, following extensive public consultation last summer that attracted more than 600 responses.
Eastleigh Town Council has 22 newly elected councillors across seven wards, named Blenheim and Barton Park; Boyatt Wood East; Boyatt Wood West; Brookwood; Cable; Chestnut, and Nightingale and North Stoneham.
Strengthening town and parish councils means that householders are represented by elected councillors who are responsible for more tightly drawn local areas than the much larger unitary authorities, with local decision-making remaining close to the immediate community.
Find out more at eastleigh-tc.gov.uk
Eastleigh Chief steps down
Eastleigh Borough Council’s Chief Executive James Strachan stepped down in March after nearly four years in the role.
James made the personal decision some months ago and said this is the right time to hand over as Eastleigh, and Hampshire, move towards the biggest change to local government in 50 years.
The Council has appointed David Williams as Interim Chief Executive to cover the period between James’s departure and a permanent appointment. David is the former Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council and Gosport Borough Council, and brings decades of local government experience in south Hampshire.
Real-terms cut in Eastleigh Borough element of Council Tax for 23rd year
Residents are seeing a real-terms cut in the Eastleigh Borough Council element of their Council Tax bills for the 23rd year in a row. The average Band D base tax increase for households in the Borough for 2026-27 has once again been set at 1% below inflation.
At the annual budget-setting meeting Councillors approved a £2.89 annual increase on the average Band D base Council Tax bill for Eastleigh Borough Council for 2026-27.
This year the average Band D Council Tax for the Borough is £2,342.21 with the Eastleigh Borough Council element £131.71, or £2.53 per week. The average Band D base tax increase of 2.4% (£2.89) over last year is 1% below inflation – representing a cut in real terms that has now been maintained for 23 years.
Just 5.6% of the overall Council Tax bill for Eastleigh Borough residents goes to the Borough Council, with the rest going to Hampshire County Council, the emergency services, and Parish and Town Councils.
Meet Eastleigh’s new MayorCouncillor Richard Gomer
Cllr Richard Gomer was invested as the Mayor of Eastleigh in May.
Richard, who has represented West End North ward since 2018, was born in Southampton and grew up in Townhill Park. Encouraged by his parents, he took an early interest in science and engineering and attended the Gregg School followed by Barton Peveril College in Eastleigh. He graduated in Computer Science from the University of Southampton in 2010 where he went on to obtain a Master’s degree, then a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction. Richard is now a Lecturer in Computer Science at the University, and his research interests include Artificial Intelligence for civic and community uses.
Richard is a founding director of Eastleigh Pride CIC, and a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. He was chair of governors of St James CE Primary School in West End and, as a Borough Councillor, he has taken an interest in local youth services, as well as environmental and housing policy.
Richard and his partner Alexander live in West End with their dog, Freddie. He enjoys gardening, electronics, and playing computer games.
He said: “Eastleigh Borough is a remarkable place, which doesn’t always get the recognition that it deserves. I have enjoyed meeting so
many amazing people during my time as Deputy Mayor, and I am looking forward to my year as Mayor. My focus will be supporting our communities, championing the amazing volunteers that we have across the Borough, and raising money for some fantastic causes.”
Richard has chosen Wessex Cancer Support, Wet Wheels Hamble, and 1216 Squadron Eastleigh Air Cadets as his charities for the year.
Cllr Michelle Marsh is this year's Deputy Mayor.
Find out more about the Mayor and his charities at eastleigh.gov.uk/mayor
Photo credit - Mike Bell Photography
Richard's year as Mayor on instagram
Mayor
Have your say
Local Area Committees hold public question sessions at the start of each meeting
Local Area Committees (LACs) are made up of elected ward councillors. They take decisions and make representations relating to their area on a wide range of Council business, including determining planning applications and environmental improvements.
Public question sessions are held at the start of each meeting and if you would like to speak, you must register before the meeting begins. Please email democraticservices@eastleigh.gov.uk or you can register at the meeting. Each LAC has a Local Area Manager who works with the councillors to set the strategic direction of the committee’s work.
Contact us: Eastleigh Borough Council, Eastleigh House, Upper Market Street, Eastleigh SO50 9YN 023 8068 8000 @EastleighBC
eastleigh.gov.uk • my.eastleigh.gov.uk
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Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath (6.30pm) 10 June • 23 Sept
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bifohh or contact kitty.budden@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 8418
Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice & Hound (6pm) 25 June • 10 Sept
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bhh or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3367
Chandler’s Ford & Hiltingbury (7pm) 17 June • 2 Sept
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/cfh or contact mel.stephens@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3369
Details are correct at time of print.
Eastleigh (7pm) 2 June • 8 Sept
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/elac or contact mel.stephens@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3369
Hedge End, West End & Botley (7pm) 29 June • 28 Sept
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/heweb or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3367
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12 JUNE - 5 JULY