This fortnight has been another reminder that Bournemouth is always getting better.
I was delighted to help ceremonially break ground on the Vitality Stadium expansion and Boscombe Community Centre, speak at the launch of Shake & Stir’s first Armed Forces Weekender, and help officially open Bournemouth War Memorial Homes’ new bungalows.
A few days ago, I secured my third parliamentary debate and dedicated it to Bournemouth East libraries.
This was the fifth Commons debate on libraries since 2008, and I called it to give libraries the same national attention that I’m putting onto playgrounds.
Joining Bournemouth War Memorial Homes’ new bungalows opening (Image: Tom Hayes MP)
Since we first raised playgrounds in my first two parliamentary debates, we’ve got stronger planning protections, smoke-free playgrounds, and the first national fund in two decades.
Now I want to see the same ambition for libraries.
I asked local residents for their views on local libraries, and the response was overwhelming.
While every library matters, one was raised more than any other: Charminster Library.
That is why I took the fight for Charminster Library to Parliament.
Charminster Library opened on 7 January 1932, BCP closed it on 22 December 2025, and nearly seven months later it remains shut despite Labour councillors proposing a £500,000 investment plan to secure its future—voted down by every other party on the council.
Residents have made clear how important the library is.
It is where toddlers discover the joy of stories before they can read and where jobseekers build skills for a better future.
Helen told me that Wriggle and Rhyme sessions helped her make lifelong friends, Carl said that losing the library deepens social isolation, and Sabong, a young constituent, said: “It is not just about books.
“It is also a quiet place where I can do my homework and meet my friends.”
I am working with Labour Councillor Sharon Carr-Brown and Secretary of the Friends of Charminster Library, Louise Norman, and progress is being made behind the scenes.
I very much hope to see Charminster’s librarians reopen the doors, switch on the lights, and welcome back the community that loves the library.
Finally, I want to wish St Nicholas Pre-School a happy fiftieth birthday.
It was a pleasure to join their celebrations.
I also send my best wishes to Muscliff Primary, Queen’s Park Academy, Queen’s Park Infant Academy, Pokesdown Primary School, and St Catherine’s, which I’ve enjoyed visiting over the last fortnight.