Today our Poole MP, Sir Robert Syms, performed the first UK launch of a drone called WasteShark that collects floating plastic and other rubbish so that it can be removed and recycled. Robert used the occasion to give an interview for BBC Radio Solent in which he described the importance of keeping out local waters free of plastic pollution, which can endanger wildlife and spoil Poole Harbour unless we remain vigilant.

Conservative Cllr Janet Walton just can't help winning ever more power and responsibility. Today she was elected Chair of the Shadow Executive Committee for the new Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. Following the approval last month in Parliament of the structural changes to the Dorset authorities, the new Shadow Executive Committee will provide political leadership and guidance toward implementing the new Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

Borough of Poole is planning improvements to Shore Road promenade. The consultation day is Thursday 14 June. Come along to Shore Road Promenade and comment on the proposals. Meet the design team on site and view the proposed designs anytime from 10 am to 7 pm.

Minister of State for Immigration Caroline Nokes visited Poole today. She spoke to a business lunch in Poole about the challenges of dealing with immigration post-Brexit and the need to get a proper balance between controlling immigration whilst keeping a supply of skilled labour to local business and the NHS. The event was chaired by Sir Robert Syms MP.

Cllr Janet Walton, Leader of the Council, Borough of Poole: "I am pleased the Secretary of State Sajid Javid has approved the Future Dorset proposal. In doing so, he has opened the door of opportunity for Poole, recognising the major benefits the plans will bring for our residents. We already have ambitious plans for the regeneration of Poole."

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid: “I have decided .. to replace the existing nine councils across Dorset .. by two new councils .. a single unitary council for the areas of Bournemouth, Poole, and that part of the county of Dorset currently comprising the Borough of Christchurch, and a single unitary council for the rest of the current county area.”

Sir Robert Syms, our MP for Poole, chaired a working lunch with John Glen, MP for Salisbury and Economic Secretary to the Treasury, and local businessmen in Poole last Friday. Penn Hill Councilor Elaine Atkinson OBE and leaders from over thirty local businesses discussed a wide range of topics, and the event was judged to be a great success.

Sajid Javid, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, has awarded Poole £6 million from the national Housing Infrastructure Fund to support phase 2 of the Poole town centre regeneration project. Cllr Ian Potter: "To secure this funding demonstrates confidence in Poole’s ability to make this project a reality.”

The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid, has recommended approval of the merger of Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch. The Poole Conservative group welcomes the announcement.

Sir Robert Syms, our MP for Poole, together with a band of willing volunteers held a promotional event in Falkland Square in the heart of Poole last Saturday. The event highlighted the work of your local councillors, who are finding innovative ways to continue making Poole a great place to live, work and play.