Winter Borough News 2025 - Eastleigh Borough Council

The Avenue opens –connecting communities

New road connects Fair Oak, Horton Heath and Hedge End

Drivers in Fair Oak, Horton Heath and Hedge End now have a smoother way to get around with the opening of The Avenue, a brand-new 1.2-mile road designed to take the strain off local traffic. But this isn’t just a new stretch of tarmac, it’s the first real sign of how One Horton Heath is being built differently, with 'infrastructure first' at its heart.

Unlike many housing schemes where roads and services arrive after the homes, One Horton Heath is taking a forward-thinking approach by putting key infrastructure in place before people move in. That means construction traffic is managed, congestion is eased, and residents

will benefit from proper links from day one. Cllr Keith House, Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, called the road opening “a key milestone in improving local connectivity” and a vital step in tackling pressure on surrounding routes.

The Avenue connects Burnetts Lane South to Allington Lane North and features two new roundabouts, safer footways, cycle-friendly access and extensive tree planting. It also includes five new bridges, three for vehicles and two for pedestrians and cyclists, fitted with wildlife-friendly touches, such as mammal tunnels and bee bricks.

For now, the road links directly into a live construction site, so drivers

and cyclists are urged to take extra care around work vehicles. But as the backbone of the Horton Heath project, The Avenue is set to carry more than just traffic, it carries a promise of forward-thinking development, designed to support people and wildlife alike.

Find out more about the One Horton Heath development onehortonheath.co.uk

Pictured: (members of the OHH team and local Councillors) Oliver, Paul, Antony, Sarah, Peter, Will, Cllr Corben, Paul, Peter, Cllr Couldrey, Jenny and Sean.

Tink! - a magical musical fairytale adventure

Join The Point Eastleigh this Christmas as they invite families across the Borough to experience the magic of a heartwarming new Christmas show that promises laughter, wonder and festive cheer for all ages. Performances run from 13 – 28 December, with tickets starting from just £14. Don’t miss this enchanting tale of friendship, adventure, and festive magic, right here in Eastleigh!

Book now thepointeastleigh.co.uk or call the Box Office on 023 8065 2333.

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.

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.

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.

New plans for Maple Place announced

The Council has appointed MH Architects as lead consultants for the redesign of Maple Place, located between Chamberlayne Road and Derby Road in Eastleigh.

The redevelopment aims to transform the currently vacant site into a well-integrated residential scheme, offering a mix of homes designed to meet modern needs. Importantly, the new proposals will aim to address concerns raised in a previous planning refusal, ensuring the design is both fit for purpose and in keeping with the character of the area.

The project represents a significant step in the Council’s efforts to deliver high-quality, sustainable housing and community-focused developments throughout the Borough.

Eastleigh South Ward Councillor, Alex Bourne, said: “Maple Place offers a real opportunity to create high-quality homes that meet the needs of local people. By working closely with residents and stakeholders, we can ensure this development not only makes good use of a vacant site but also becomes a valued part of the community.”

A planning application should be submitted in Spring 2026, bringing the vision for Maple Place one step closer to reality.

Larger Eastleigh Town Council takes shape

Maintaining and creating an attractive and sustainable environment that is valued, and which can allow residents, visitors and nature to flourish.

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.

Borough Councillors have endorsed arrangements to create a larger decision-making body for the centre of Eastleigh town and the area to the immediate north.

The community governance review (CGR) to merge the existing Eastleigh Town Council and Boyatt Wood Parish Council was given the go-ahead over the summer following detailed public consultation that attracted more than 600 responses.

Residents’ and stakeholders’ views were then sought on the number of councillors and the boundaries and makeup of electoral wards for the council, which represents the first tier of local democracy.

The recommendations will go to the meeting of the Full Council on 17 November and, if agreed, a larger Eastleigh Town Council, serving the residents of Eastleigh Town and Boyatt Wood, will have 22 councillors across seven wards. The names of the wards are: 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 that will be introduced under Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

The election for seats on the new council will take place next year (May 2026).

Improved Lakeside play area is open

Works

have been completed at the Lakeside play area near Monk’s

Way, Eastleigh

The play area was opened in September and includes a replacement basket swing and a multi-play unit, aimed for use by older children.

An exciting new zip line has also been installed outside of the play area. These new additions complement the existing equipment which include a junior multi play unit, swings, a tunnel mound, and various other smaller pieces of play equipment.

The scheme was given the go-ahead following successful online and in- person consultations with the public.

The £61,000 cost of the project was paid for from developers contributions allocated by the Eastleigh Local Area Committee. The work was carried out by contractors, HAGS.

Works taking place to discourage unauthorised encampments

Works to discourage unauthorised encampments on areas of public land around Eastleigh town centre have been taking place in recent weeks.

The Eastleigh Local Area Committee has invested in a programme of improvements in Fleming Park which have boosted site security and are designed to prevent unauthorised use of the land and strengthen public safety. The works include new fencing and guard rails that not only help to secure the site but also provide safer boundaries between play areas, the paddling pool, footpaths and nearby roads.

Further enhancements are planned for the winter, including the creation of grassed bunds and hawthorn planting in the green space at the front of the leisure centre. These will provide valuable habitat and food sources for pollinating insects and nesting birds, supporting local biodiversity whilst helping keep the site secure.

Improvements, including landscaping and boundary enhancements, have also been carried out at Lawn Road Recreation Ground and Passfield Avenue Fair Ground, made possible with around £18,000 of contributions from developers.

New school plans take shape

One Horton Heath appoints consultant to lead design

First artist in residence

Local photographer Simon Bray has been appointed as the first artist-in-residence for One Horton Heath. Through a partnership with John Hansard Gallery and Winchester School of Art at the University of Southampton, Simon will be undertaking a PhD Studentship and inviting residents to participate in his research, exploring the local environment through photography.

Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with the University of Southampton on this project, which aims to innovate through high-quality research and create unique experiences for our One Horton Heath residents."

Simon Bray has exhibited at galleries and festivals nationally including The Southbank Centre, The Whitworth, Open Eye Gallery and Brighton Photo Fringe. His work has been featured by The Guardian, British Journal of Photography and the BBC, including an appearance on The One Show.

"I've been working as a socially engaged photographer for many years, alongside the recently bereaved, prisoners, young people and refugees. This PhD opportunity will allow me to bring all of that experience and knowledge to develop a body of research that I hope will encourage creativity and community engagement for many years to come."

Follow Simon’s progress at eastleigh.gov.uk/OHH-publicart

The next stage of One Horton Heath is moving forward with the appointment of Peter Marsh Consulting Ltd (PMc) to lead the design of the new primary school. Working alongside Re-Format Architect & Design, the consultants will begin survey and design work to create a modern, sustainable school at the heart of the development.

The appointment reflects the project’s ‘infrastructure first’ approach, ensuring that plans for schools and community facilities are put in motion early rather than left until last. PMC bring longstanding experience in delivering education projects across the country and are excited about shaping a school that not only provides high-quality learning spaces but also reflects the needs of the wider community. Their focus on sustainability and modern design will help to create a building that serves families for generations to come.

Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: "The new school will not only provide a high-quality education environment for children but will also act as a hub for the local community.”

The design stage marks an important milestone, laying the groundwork for a school that can support future families and become a central part of life in Horton Heath.

Follow the latest news on onehortonheath.co.uk/latest-news

Pictured (L-R): George (PMc), Cllr House, Mo (PMc), Peter (PMc), Bobby (PMc), Paul (EBC), Cllr Corben, Magda (RE-Format), Alex (Re-Format), Clarissa (EBC)

OHH continues community consultations on future development

The One Horton Heath (OHH) project team has been continuing its series of public consultations, inviting residents and stakeholders to help shape the next phases of this major local development.

Recent consultation events have provided opportunities for the community to view the latest plans, share feedback, and meet the OHH team in person. Each consultation typically runs for two to three weeks and begins with a local, in-person event, where visitors can ask questions and learn more about the proposals.

The OHH team encourages residents to stay informed by visiting the Public Consultation Updates webpage at onehortonheath.co.uk/latest-news/public-consultation-updates.

Or follow OHH on Instagram: instagram.com/onehortonheath or the latest news and event announcements.

Asbestos flytipping on the rise

Residents can breathe more easily

In July, it was revealed that residents can now breathe more easily – thanks to a considerable improvement in air quality in the north of the Borough.

Fewer older vehicles on the road, cleaner emissions from newer vehicles and the increasing popularity of electric vehicles are among the reasons for the significant improvement in air quality along either side of a stretch of the M3.

An Air Quality Management Area 2 (AQMA) was declared by the government along either side of the M3 between Junctions 12 and 14 in 2006 as the area was unlikely to achieve national air quality objectives. However, between 2019 and 2024 the area was well below the national limits,

The Council is warning residents and businesses about the dangers of fly-tipping asbestos. It follows an increase in the material being illegally dumped across the Borough which is not only against the law, but also poses serious health and environmental risks.

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals once widely used in building materials. When damaged or disturbed, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and inhaled, which may cause serious illnesses such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis –sometimes decades after exposure.

Because of these dangers, asbestos must be handled with extreme care. Only trained, licensed professionals can remove it, and it can only be disposed of at specialist, approved facilities.

What you should do:

• Do not dump asbestos waste under any circumstances.

• Do not touch or move suspected asbestos yourself.

with a year-on-year decline in the concentration of nitrogen dioxide and the AQMA was revoked.

The Council’s Pollution Control team will continue to monitor air quality in this area. See the data and find out more at eastleigh.gov.uk/air-quality.

Clean Air Night

Log burners and open fires may feel cosy, but they release fine particles and pollutants that can harm our health and the environment. On 22 January 2026, Clean Air Night highlights the impact of domestic wood burning and encourages people to choose cleaner alternatives, helping communities breathe easier and protecting local air quality.

For more info: cleanairhub.org.uk

• If you have asbestos to dispose of, use a licensed contractor or visit the Council website for guidance on approved disposal sites.

Remember:

Only trained, licensed contractors can remove asbestos.

It must be taken to specialist disposal sites.

Fly-tipping asbestos is a criminal offence that can result in prosecution.

If you suspect asbestos waste or see fly-tipping, do not touch it. Report it to us immediately - eastleigh.gov.uk/ fly-tipping

Don’t let vapes start fires

Borough residents are being urged to dispose of their vapes safely.

Vape fires are a growing problem in the UK, caused by the lithium-ion batteries contained in the devices that can overheat or explode if they’re damaged, improperly charged, or disposed of incorrectly.

Most fires occur when disposable vapes, often containing damaged batteries, are thrown into general waste, leading to fires in bin lorries and recycling centres.

To prevent fires, users should only use the charger and battery that came with their device, avoid charging near flammable materials or in extreme temperatures, protect devices from physical damage, and never dispose of vapes in general household waste.

Get recycling right this festive season

There’s always a large amount of waste for households to dispose of after the festive season

The UK generates a staggering amount of card packaging waste, particularly during peak seasons like Christmas. Research indicates that over a quarter of this packaging was not recycled in 2023.

And when items like glitter-laden wrapping paper and cards enter the system, they contribute to this non-recycled volume, making it harder for local authorities to meet their recycling targets.

So, to make sure that Borough residents know what they can and can’t recycle, we have produced a handy list to make it easy for you to recycle as much as possible.

Christmas waste and what bins to use:

Plastic trays and packaging - go in your black bin.

Gift wrap/ cards - plain and patterned 100% recyclable brown paper goes in your green bin. If it’s shiny, glittery or hard to tear we can’t recycle it. Please place it in your black bin.

Tin foil - rinse and take to your HWRC (tip) for recycling.

Glass - In your black mixed glass box you can recycle all your glass bottles and jars, such as sauce, jam and pickle jars and glass drink bottles.

Batteries - place in a clear bag on top of the bottles/jars in your glass recycling box.

Christmas Trees - can be put out with garden waste in the New Year (cut into sections shorter than 4ft) or taken to your HWRC. (There are no tree drop off points this year.)

Food waste - all bones, uncooked food and leftovers can go in your brown food waste bin. Just wrap it in newspaper or compostable bags.

Take your tub to the pub

Borough residents can recycle their empty plastic confectionery and crackers tubs, saving waste from landfill and raising money for charity.

Greene King, the leading pub company, is running its popular Tub2Pub initiative in the New Year which offers customers a simple recycling solution for the hundreds of thousands of polypropylene sweets and biscuits tubs sold over the festive period.

Residents can take their clean and empty tubs to 1,600 participating Greene King managed pubs nationwide between 1 January and 15 February 2026, raising funds for their charity partner Macmillan Cancer Support.

For more info: tub2pub.co.uk

If your child is 16 or 17, they can register to vote.

(Although they cannot vote until they are 18). It’s quick, easy and helps shape their future.

Encourage them to register today at gov.uk/register-to-vote. All they need is their National Insurance number.

WHAT’S ON

THEATRE, MUSIC & DANCE HIGHLIGHTS

SAD GIRL SHOWS: THE TAYLOR SWIFT CABARET

30 October, 7pm

The Point

SO SOUND SESSIONS

31 October, 14 November & 12 December

7.30pm

The Point

HUNDRED WATT CLUB: BURLESQUE WORKSHOP

1 November, 5pm

The Point

GAVIN ROBERTSON: THE GOOSEBUMPS OF DELIGHT

1 November, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

HUNDRED WATT CLUB: A HALLOWEEN EVENING OF BURLESQUE & CABARET

1 November, 7.30pm

The Point

ALEX MARSHALL PARSONS: HOUSEHOLD

6 November, 7.30pm

The Point

REVENGE: AFTER THE LEVOYAH

7 November, 7.30pm

The Point

JONATHAN BROWN: HAPPY HOUR

21 November, 8pm

The Point

CLEMENTS ENTERTAINMENT: THE G-DFATHER RETURNS

28 November, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

THE SPITFIRE SISTERS: IT’S SNOWTIME!

18 December, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

COMEDY HIGHLIGHTS

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY

11 November, 11.30am

The Point

ANYTHING FUNNY

18 November & 16 December, 8pm

The Point

SHAPARAK KHORSANDI: SCATTERBRAIN

13 November, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

STEPHEN K AMOS: NOW WE’RE TALKING

21 November, 7.30pm

The Point

GRACE PETRIE: THIS IS NO TIME TO PANIC!

22 November, 7.30pm

The Point

ANDY PARSONS: PLEASE #@!$ OFF TO MARS

29 November, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

FAMILY HIGHLIGHTS

HALLOWEEN SLIME MAKING

31 October, from 10am

The Point

CHRISTMAS GROTTO

15 & 16 November, 10.30am – 4.30pm

The Point

NICK SHARRATT’S PICTURE BOOK DRAW-ALONG

16 November, 2pm

The Point

NORWELL LAPLEY

PRODUCTIONS: TALES FROM ACORN WOOD AT CHRISTMAS

29 November, 1.30pm & 4.30pm & 30 November, 11am

The Berry Theatre

NICK COPE’S FESTIVE FAMILY SHOW

30 November, 11am

The Point

LET’S ALL DANCE: THE NUTCRACKER, THE BALLET

6 & 7 December, 1pm & 3.30pm

The Berry Theatre

THE POINT & THE HOUSE OF MANY MOONS: TINK! A FESTIVE NEVERLAND FAIRYTALE

13 – 28 December, 10am & 2pm (5.30pm snuggle show)

The Point

EVENTS

QUIZ AND CURRY AT THE THEATRE

7 November & 19 December, 7pm

The Point

BOARD GAME CAFÉ

18 November & 16 December, 6pm – 10pm

The Point

CHRISTMAS MAKERS MARKET

15 November, 10am – 5pm

The Point

CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS

5 December, 7pm

The Point FILM

INCLUSIVE CINEMA

18 November & 2 December, 10.45am

The Point

CHRISTMAS FILMS

3, 10 & 17 December, 10.30am

The Berry Theatre

COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE

Community Performance SOUTHAMPTON MUSICAL SOCIETY: THE WIZARD OF OZ

5 – 8 November, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

PLUTONIUM STAGE PRODUCTIONS: RHINESTONE COWBOY –THE GLEN CAMPBELL STORY

22 November, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre

SPOT ON PRODUCTIONS: MY FAIR LADY

26 - 29 November, 2pm & 7.30pm

The Point

Antiques valuation day with Paul Martin

Television antiques expert Paul Martin is offering free valuations to people in Eastleigh on Wednesday 14 January 2026.

The Flog It! star is at The Point to host a community valuation day which provides an opportunity for residents to find out the value of any items they

have been wondering about. Paul will use his expertise to give visitors insight into the historical and monetary value of their belongings.

The event follows a very successful community valuation day held by Paul and the team in September.

Theatres offer a dazzling countdown to Christmas

There’s a packed programme of events being staged at The Point Eastleigh and The Berry Theatre in Hedge End in the run up to Christmas - with entertainment to suit every taste.

This year’s big festive show is Tink! - the story of Peter Pan as remembered through the eyes of his fairy companion Tinkerbell.

A number of delightful family shows include Tales from Acorn

Events at Itchen Valley

Festive Willow Workshops

Sunday 16 November • £35 each Willow stars: 10am - 12.30pm Willow Christmas trees: 1.30pm - 4pm

Two workshops led by Jacquie from Willow and Crafts to make decorative willow stars and Christmas trees.

Seasonal Willow Wreath

Sunday 23 November

10.30am - 12pm • £25

A workshop to make a rustic wreath using buff willow, foraged cones and seeds, and your own festive decorations.

Gingerbread House Workshop

Saturday 13 December 10am, 11.30am & 2pm • £6

Make and decorate a cardboard gingerbread house fit for a gingerbread person!

Willow Lantern workshops

Sunday 14 December • 10.30am £10 per family

Make your own lantern ahead of the lantern parade on 21 December.

Festive Songs and Lanterns

Sunday 21 December

From 3.30pm • from £4

Join us for our lantern workshops and parade, with a performance by Mountbatten Choir and a singalong with Otterbourne Brass Band.

Nutmeg’s Adventure –

Christmas trail

29 November - 4 January • £3

Pick up your trail map from the Woodland Café, set off on your festive adventure, and see if your family can help Nutmeg bring back the Christmas magic.

New Years Day Walk

Thursday 1 January IVCP • 10.30am

A 3km walk around the park to see in the New Year.

Wood at Christmas, being staged at The Berry on 29 and 30 November, as well as Let’s All Dance: The Nutcracker which takes place on 6 and 7 December.

There’s comedy too, with standup from Shaparak Khorsandi, Stephen K Amos, Grace Petrie and Andy Parsons.

For music fans, there’s plenty to set your feet tapping –

with the Christmas harmonies of the Spitfire Sisters, a tribute to country star Glen Campbell, and an homage to the genius of soul legend James Brown.

For the full programme of shows and events, please visit: thepointeastleigh.co.uk/whats-on

This year's big festive show is Tink!

Crestwood bike shed boosts air quality

Pupils at Crestwood Community School in Eastleigh are getting on their bikes - and doing their bit to improve air quality in the Borough

A newly built bike shed which aims to encourage pupils to cycle to school has secure storage for 120 bikes – an eight fold increase in capacity.

As well as boosting pupil fitness, the new facilities should also improve air quality in Eastleigh by reducing the number of car drop-offs and pick-ups.

The Borough Council helped the school to pay for the shed using a Defra active transportation grant, as well as finding the right contractor to design and deliver the project.

Cllr Rupert Kyrle, Eastleigh Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “This wonderful new facility means that not

only will pupils be able to store their bikes securely, but it will encourage more students to cycle to school.

“Cycling has great health benefits for students, plus it cuts down on vehicle emissions and congestion which has wider benefits for the local community.”

Head of Crestwood School, Krista Dawkins, added: “We have an excellent relationship with Eastleigh Borough Council and would like to thank them for their help in making this project happen in time for the start of the new term.”

Pictured: Cllr Rupert Kyrle with staff and pupils at Crestwood Community School.

Hampshire Sports Club Conference

A conference that aims to help sports clubs build long-term resilience through strategic planning and innovative thinking takes place in November.

The Hampshire Sports Club Conference 2025 is at Ganger Farm Sports Park in Romsey on Monday 24 November, from 5.30pm to 9.30pm.

This year’s theme is Sustainability & Forward Thinking, and will bring together sports club representatives, industry professionals

and colleagues from local authorities across Hampshire. The evening will offer a chance to explore practical solutions to the challenges facing sports clubs today.

Guests will have the opportunity to take part in workshops led by sector experts, hear from a panel of leading voices in the sports industry, and connect with others through networking and collaboration.

Help grow your local woodland

Join one of three upcoming tree-planting days at Itchen Valley Country Park and start the New Year by being part of something special. We need the support of our residents to make Eastleigh a leafier place to live.

It's part of Plant Eastleigh, Eastleigh Borough Council’s ambitious plan to tackle the climate and environmental emergency, enhance biodiversity, and create greener spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Planting trees doesn’t just make our parks and streets look nicer, it also helps us breathe cleaner air. Trees take in harmful gases like nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, and they trap dust and tiny particles on their leaves. They also produce oxygen and help cool the air, which can reduce other pollutants.

Every tree planted as part of Plant Eastleigh makes our community healthier and our air cleaner.

Choose one of Itchen Valley’s planting days: 25 January, 8 February and 22 February 2026.

Love trees but can’t make a planting day? You can still make a difference, sponsor a tree and help grow Eastleigh’s local woodland, even from afar!

For more info: planteastleigh.co.uk

It’s soon time to Boost your New Year!

We're launching our New Year Boost programme to help residents in the Borough to boost their health at the start of 2026. Activities are aimed at adults (16 years plus) who are currently doing little to no exercise.

Local providers and venues have been approached by the Council’s SportWorks team to create a variety of activities to help more adults discover what’s on offer local to them, to build healthier habits for 2026.

There are free options, pay-as-yougo, block course bookings and some include exclusive discounts.

Over 300 families inspired by food programme

A local food education and production programme has inspired more than 300 families across the Borough to cook nutritious recipes - and has made low-cost food more accessible.

Families have been exploring food creatively and keeping nutrition budget-friendly, healthy and fun. The programme has supported ‘grow your own’ projects, as well as a local food partnership to improve the flow of supplies between food banks, community pantries and fridges.

Over the summer, the team worked with elderly residents at Velmore Community Centre to explore their food memories, resulting in a live healthy cooking sessionand a book by a life story writer, which is ready for download.

More recently, ‘Cooking with Michelle’ online sessions, led by a family support

worker at Freegrounds Junior School have gone ahead, together with ‘Family Cook Up’ sessions at the Pavilion on the Park. A grant to was also awarded to Thrive Church UK to buy a display freezer to sit alongside the community fridge at Pavilion on the Park.

The programme is supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to tackle the cost of living, social isolation and nutritional health of local families.

View the project’s progress and the recipe book at eastleigh.gov.uk/ukspf/food

Residents can choose from three levels, beginning with ‘Getting started’, helping to get you moving with support or self-led, group activities at a more leisurely pace, or choose ‘Kick-start’ and ‘Push yourself’ options to get the heart pumping.

January/February is a great time to kick-start healthy habits and sometimes it can be difficult to know where to look or what is on offer, so this scheme will showcase the variety of providers and venues in the local area.

Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/nyboost

Festival is wheelie successful

The Borough’s

first 30-day Walking & Wheeling Festival helped local people ‘Walk, Wheel and Connect’

More than 420 people took part across the Borough, completing over 1,400km across 30 free routes over 30 days – which is a greater distance than walking or wheeling from Eastleigh to Edinburgh and back again! Feedback from the sessions has been hugely positive.

The Point Eastleigh created a launch event on the Hamble Rail Trail as part of the Railway 200 celebration of two centuries of rail travel. Route leaders used history, art, nature, and photography to bring fun and interest to each route – and triple-gold medal-winning Paralympian swimmer, Peter Hull MBE gave an inspirational talk about his journey to success at the Barcelona 1992 games.

The Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Cllr Tonia Craig, said: “Thank you to all the volunteers who helped make this event such an immense success. It really has helped residents

Volunteer call out for trees and walks Smokefree Hampshire first call

We’re putting out a call for volunteers who can help the Tree Planting team and Health Walk Leaders this autumn and winter.

Plant Eastleigh

Our amazing Plant Eastleigh Tree Rangers and their volunteer team are looking to recruit for the planting season from November to March. You’ll support this community engagement project involving local residents in the planting and aftercare of trees across the Borough.

You’ll get help with practical tasks using a variety of hand tools to cut back weeds and clear areas for planting, plant tree standards or whips and install tree guards and stakes; you’ll also be involved

for those inspired by Stoptober

The Council is supporting an awareness campaign to encourage local people to get help to quit smoking

Peter Hull MBE and fellow festival goers at Pirelli Park.

in aftercare, such as controlling weeds, applying mulch and watering.

Health Walks Leaders

Our HealthWorks team’s Health Walks programme is well established with weekly walks across the Borough – and they’re always on the lookout for volunteer Walk Leaders.

The Walk Leaders are a passionate and friendly group, but they’d love more recruits to spread the load and help more people get out and about and connect.

John, a Walk Leader, is enthusiastic about the benefits of the scheme. He said: “It’s lovely to introduce new people and friends are quickly made when you are sharing such an enjoyable pursuit. It helps me to keep fit and I like the regularity of the walks which creates a good routine. The social aspect is a really important part of the experience, and many a damp walk is made enjoyable just by chatting to other people.”

Eastleigh Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Cllr Tonia Craig, said: ”The Council have a range of volunteering opportunities available throughout the year. Many become oversubscribed – so residents are encouraged to apply for their spot in these great projects without delay to help wellbeing and support the environment.”

The wider volunteering programme is supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Apply now at eastleigh.gov.uk/volunteering

Pictured: John, walk leader

We have been pointing residents who want to stop smoking and vaping to Smokefree Hampshire, as part of the NHS’s Stoptober scheme for October 2025 and 2026. To give residents the best chance of quitting, Smokefree Hampshire provide online help, a quit line phone service and support for selfreferrals, as well as general advice.

The 18-month campaign is funded by Hampshire County Council which works with other councils and partners across the county, with more engagement projects underway.

Eastleigh Borough Council’s Cabinet Member Health, Cllr Tonia Craig, said: “Although we’re pleased that smoking prevalence isn’t high in the Borough, the benefits to an individual and their family of quitting smoking are always worthwhile. With free support, now’s the time to choose a healthier future.”

Find out more at smokefreehampshire.co.uk

Eastleigh steps up on Local Government Reorganisation

Eastleigh Borough Council is taking a leading role in shaping the future of local services across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight

With changes to how councils are structured on the horizon, Eastleigh is championing a four-mainland-unitary model based on how people actually live, travel and work.

We are backing the idea of a new Eastleigh, Southampton & Waterside local council. From Eastleigh to Totton, Hythe to Hamble, we already share strong ties in business, culture, education, and everyday life. Our vision is to reflect this shared reality in the way local services are planned and delivered.

Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: “This is about designing a council that works for the next 50 years, not the last. We want

New Cabinet roles anticipate Local Government Reorganisation

With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the horizon, Eastleigh Borough Council has created two new Cabinet portfolios - Adult Services and Children’s Services - to influence how unitary-level services evolve.

These roles won’t run adult or children’s services day-to-day - that remains with the existing unitary authorities for now. The purpose is to speak up for Eastleigh’s communities, shape future models, and bring what the Borough already delivers closer to those services and the people who use them.

Cllr Maud Attrill (Adult Services) will lead Eastleigh’s input on adult care issues linked to housing and independence and will act as the Council’s point person with partners on designing the future of these services.

Maud represents Hiltingbury and chairs the Chandler’s Ford & Hiltingbury Local Area Committee. She also serves on Chandler’s Ford Parish Council.

Maud said: “My focus is helping shape a system where people can live well and independently for longer. I’ll work with the County, the NHS and housing partners to speed up adaptations, join up homelessness pathways, and raise standards in the private rented sector, so what Eastleigh already offers helps to deliver better adult social care on the ground.”

Cllr Prad Bains (Children’s Services) will lead the Borough’s voice on services affecting children and young people (schools and SEND interfaces, early help, libraries and youth provision) and knit these together with the Borough’s own community.

Prad is the Borough Councillor for Hamble & Netley and a Hampshire County Councillor; he is a former Mayor of Havant and has experience of improving the accessibility and inclusivity of mental health services.

Prad said: “Children and families need simple, joined-up support. I’ll make sure Eastleigh’s communities help shape how county-level services evolve through LGR. The aim is clear: earlier support, better access, and more positive things for young people to do.”

a structure that makes sense for residents, delivers good services and protects local identity.”

Eastleigh has now formally submitted its case to Government, alongside ten other councils across the area. The Government is expected to launch a public consultation soon.

To stay up to date and take part, visit: thisisyourplace.co.uk

To support this work, Eastleigh is also preparing to take on new responsibilities. Two new Cabinet roles are focusing on areas currently run by the County Council. (See article below). Are your details up-to-date

on the electoral register?

Reminder letters have gone out to those households who haven’t yet responded to the annual canvass letter. This shows the names of residents who are currently registered to vote at your property.

If you still need to respond, please follow the instructions in the letter to ensure the details are correct and that the Council’s records are up to date.

This information is used to confirm who, at your address, is eligible to vote, and can also be used when applying for credit, such as a mortgage or personal loan. Not being registered can risk you being refused credit.

It is a legal requirement to respond to the letter, if it says you must do so. Please help us by responding now to prevent the need for personal visits to your property during November. The deadline is Sunday 16 November, and if we do not receive a response, you may be removed from the electoral register.

For more information, visit eastleigh.gov.uk/ annualcanvass

Build your business network at The Point

Are you ready to boost your business and connect with a supportive community of local entrepreneurs?

Then get ready to join The Point Profile networking group, presented by The Point and Penny & Wells at 6pm on Thursday 5 March.

The event, at The Point in Leigh Road, Eastleigh, is your chance to share knowledge, overcome challenges and forge valuable connections right here in the cultural heart of the Borough. We’ll have speed networking to get those conversations flowing, as well as a guest speaker to inspire you in your business journey.

The Fabrics of Freedom

Eastleigh’s The Point welcomed acclaimed artist Alisa Ruzavina on Saturday 4 October, as she led a community workshop encouraging local participation in the national campaign Our Freedom: Then and Now

The Fabrics of Freedom is an exciting community-led project as part of Future Arts Centre's national campaign. The initiative invites people of Eastleigh Borough to reflect on what freedom means today, 80 years after the end of the Second World War.

In collaboration with The Point's Creative Practitioner, Dani Bond, Alisa has attended workshops at both Norwood Primary School and Fleming House Care Home, working with both children and residents to directly inform the look and feel of the final piece created by Alisa.

Alisa said: “To me, art is one of the most powerful and joyful ways to express and celebrate our shared values. I am thrilled that, through this special project, Eastleigh’s community, including its youngest and oldest residents, will have a rare and precious chance to be inspired by each other’s visions of freedom. This is the true power of public art: to bring diverse people together, to serve as a collective canvas that builds bridges and unites, and to deepen our connections with each other and with what we hold most dear.”

The Fabrics of Freedom project is one of 60 community-led commissions across the UK forming part of Our Freedom: Then and Now, a national programme supported by Arts Council England. The campaign commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day by inviting communities to reflect on the past and reimagine the future through creativity.

The project will culminate in a celebration parade event on Saturday 15 November, where the flags and banners will be shared with the wider community.

Further information about the Our Freedom: Then and Now project can be found at: ourfreedom.org.uk

Registration is free with a suggested £5 cash donation on arrival for the vital Eastleigh Foodbank.

Let’s support our community while we grow our businesses. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, and you can also make a visit to the bar.

Find out more and book at thepointeastleigh.co.uk/ whats-on/networking-event

Pictured: A previous networking event held at The Point.

New designs for Fleming Park Paddling Pool

Families at Fleming Park had a go at drawing with oak gall ink this summer as part of a project designing new shade structures for the park’s Paddling Pool.

Artist duo, Denman and Gould, have developed a design inspired by the cellular structure of plants, which aims to maximise shade between the canopies of newly planted trees whilst they grow.

The next phase of improvements to the play area has also commenced with the installation of a new slide, a ‘surfboard’ play feature and a more robust basketball hoop.

For more info: eastleigh.gov.uk/ fp-publicart

Remembrance 2025

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and, in November, Eastleigh Borough comes together to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the two world wars and subsequent conflicts

This year, Remembrance services and parades will be held at locations across the Borough on Sunday 9 November. Eastleigh’s Remembrance service takes place at 10.45am, following a parade at 10:30am from Market Street to the town’s war memorial on the Leigh Road Recreation Ground. The war memorial has been the focus of Eastleigh’s Remembrance commemorations since 1921.

Two large poppies are being erected on the nearby bandstand to provide a very visual sign of support for this year’s Remembrance. People can also tie a poppy onto the bandstand to show their support and respect.

An Armistice Day Service will be held from 10.45am on Tuesday 11 November at the war memorial. The customary two-minute silence will take place at 11am.

To find out more about Remembrance services around the Borough, and related road closures, please visit eastleigh.gov.uk.

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

Sign up to receive updates from us at: eastleigh.gov.uk/weeklynews

The Point transformed by Kimberley’s classy colours

Former Girls Aloud star, Kimberley Walsh picked up a paintbrush and helped transform Eastleigh’s The Point.

Kimberley took part in a painting project which focused on improving heavily used areas, including The Atrium and Studio Theatre foyer, which had become tired and outdated over the years.

With Kimberley’s hands-on involvement, using her signature paint colours and the support of local tradesperson Nick from Lekh Construction, these areas now boast a bright, modern look, creating a warm,

Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath (6.30pm) 26 Nov•21 Jan

Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bifohh or contact kitty.budden@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 8418

Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice & Hound (6pm) 13 Nov•29 Jan

Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bhh or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3367

Chandler’s Ford & Hiltingbury (7pm) 9 Nov•28 Jan

Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/cfh or contact narinder.phagura-sims@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3369

Details are correct at time of print.

welcoming atmosphere for a variety of groups.

Louisa Milburn, Business Director at The Point, said: "This transformation has truly brought our building to life. It’s created an inspiring, inclusive environment where visitors can enjoy a coffee, warm up for a dance class, or simply meet up with friends.

“We’re so grateful to Wickes and Kimberley for helping us refresh the heart of The Point; a vibrant, community-focused hub that reflects the creativity and warmth of everyone who walks through our doors."

Eastleigh (7pm) 4 Nov•27 Jan

Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/elac or contact mel.stephens@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3369

Hedge End, West End & Botley (7pm) 10 Nov•11 Jan

Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/heweb or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk 023 8068 3367

Distribution period - We try to ensure that the dates featured or listed in the Borough News fall after the last copy is delivered. However, some events may occur during the delivery period. We try to avoid this, but we are keen that events get as much publicity as possible.

Eastleigh Borough Council makes no representations, endorsements, warranties or guarantees, and is not liable for any loss or damage, in relation to any advertisements placed in the Borough News.

The Point & The House of Many Moons present

a Festive Neverland Fairytale

Saturday 13 - Sunday 28 December

A magical musical fairytale adventure.

Join us at The Point this Christmas for a festive adventure as an older Tinkerbell looks back on her younger days in Neverland, reliving adventures with Peter Pan and those pesky pirates – and revealing the untold truths behind the beloved tale.

This original and vibrant production, featuring unforgettable songs, offers a unique and creative alternative to traditional panto this Christmas.

An imaginative retelling of J.M.Barrie’s Peter Pan as told by Tinkerbell.

Tickets: Off peak: £16 / £14 conc Peak: £18 / £16 conc Scan to book