Crime levels in Bordon fell to their lowest level for more than a year in February – but a spate of burglaries around the town may be cause for concern.
The latest figures on the police map show that 39 crimes were reported around the patch during the month.
That’s nearly half the 70 reported in January and an even heftier drop from the 2024 September high of 100.
Crimes involving violence or sexual offences (VSOs) were the most frequently reported (23) followed by burglary.
Four of the latter offences were reported with incidents at Douglas Drive, High Street, the lower end of Forest Road and Liphook Road, Lindford, being investigated.
Police also received a report of someone being in possession of a weapon on Falstaff Walk.
Branson Road and Gorsedown Close were the town’s “crime hotspots” for the month with three apiece while police also carried out six stop-and-searches during the month. Four people were searched at various times near Woolmer Way services under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 but no further action was taken.
Crime levels also fell during the month in the Longmoor Rural patch which includes Whitehill and Headley.
Some 75 crimes were reported during the month – the lowest figure since the September low of 68 – but levels have otherwise remained steady around the patch.
Larch Road in Headley Down was the area’s most “crime ridden” area with five VSO offences and one report of anti-social behaviour being made.
The most commonly reported crime in the patch involved VSOs (28) followed by other theft (9), shoplifting and vehicle crime (both 8).
A burglary was also reported in or around Broxhead Trading Estate while police also checked out an offence involving drugs on Grayshott Road in Headley Down.
For more information and a greater breakdown of figures visit www.police.uk
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Forget cash in the attic: there’s now smackeroonies in The Shed as a banking hub opened on Friday.
Bank counter services have returned to Whitehill & Bordon for the first time since Lloyds closed in 2017.
The hub will be open 9am to 5pm every weekday with Lloyds, Barclays, Natwest and Santander respectively operating counter services on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Customers will be able to withdraw and deposit cash, pay utility bills, deposit cheques, check their account balance and collect change at the facility.
Greg Stafford MP called the move “a real step forward” with the hub being temporarily based at The Shed until a permanent home is found.
He said: “Bordon now has the access to banking it deserves."
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Andover Town FC remain sixth in the uhlsport Hampshire Premier League (Senior Division) following a 2–1 defeat away to Whitehill & Bordon on Saturday 3rd May
Despite having three games in hand over most teams above them
Town were unable to close the gap on the top five in a closely fought contest at The Daly Ground
The hosts – nicknamed the Stags – took the lead in the first half and
although Andover responded with an equaliser
Whitehill & Bordon found a second goal in the latter stages to secure all three points
Forward Oli Graham netted the winner for the home side
capping off a determined performance that moves Whitehill & Bordon up to 36 points and gives them a realistic chance of a mid-table finish
Andover Town’s lone goal offered a glimpse of hope during the second half
but the team were ultimately left frustrated as the hosts held on in front of their supporters
The result leaves Town sixth in the table on 49 points from 27 games
Colden Common have already sealed the league title with 68 points
while Liss Athletic hold second place after an emphatic 11–0 win over Sway
and Hedge End Rangers all sit ahead of Andover
although the local side’s remaining fixtures still offer the chance to climb higher in the final weeks of the season
Rookwood-based fans will be hoping Andover Town can bounce back quickly as they look to finish the campaign on a high
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The Defence Infrastructure Organisation and the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company have announced that Sainsbury’s will be opening a food store in Bordon after the contract was officially signed on Thursday 28 March
marking a significant milestone in the regeneration of Whitehill & Bordon and the delivery of vital new infrastructure for the growing town
ft supermarket will be situated in the heart of Whitehill & Bordon’s new town centre
providing the local community with easy access to high quality
great value Sainsbury’s food and everything they need to complete their weekly grocery shop.
Construction of the new Sainsbury’s store is expected to begin after Easter with the aim of welcoming customers by summer 2026
The new store is part of WBRC’s broader strategy to bring improved infrastructure and amenities to Whitehill & Bordon while also creating at least one new local job for every new home built.
Project Lead at the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company
said: “We are genuinely delighted to be able to confirm that Sainsbury’s will be opening a brand new food store in Bordon
This is a huge milestone for regeneration of the town centre
and we are determined that this will mark the start of a busy period for the delivery of new and improved infrastructure in the town
and the perfect provider for our community
We very much look forward to seeing the doors open in the second quarter of 2026.”
Head of Major Disposals at the Defence Infrastructure Organisation
said: “Securing Sainsbury’s as our food store operator for Whitehill & Bordon is a hugely important milestone
Significant work has been undertaken over the last couple of years to align our town centre plans with some of the wider macro economic challenges in this sector
I am delighted that the team at WBRC have been able to secure this important anchor for the town centre and the residents and community of Whitehill & Bordon.”
Sainsbury’s Chief Property and Procurement Officer & MD of Smart Charge
said: "We’re thrilled to have taken this next step towards opening a new Sainsbury’s supermarket at the heart of Whitehill & Bordon’s growing town centre
The new store will allow us to bring our unbeatable combination of quality fresh food
innovative products and brilliant colleague service to the town – alongside a Click & Collect service giving customers access to our much-loved brands of Argos
We look forward to becoming an integral part of the community and welcoming our first customers when we open the doors of our new store next year."
in his role as Deputy Leader of East Hampshire District Council & Portfolio Holder for the Whitehill & Bordon area
said: “Having announced they were coming to Whitehill & Bordon in 2024
I am delighted to hear contracts are signed and I can’t wait to see spades going in the ground soon
I look forward to welcoming Sainsbury’s to Whitehill & Bordon when the store opens
Fellow local residents want to see delivery of facilities and this is a very positive step forward
Thank you to all those who work behind the scenes who have driven forward this project.”
vision and plans for the future and how we deliver our services
We do more than tackle fires and rescue people
Catch up with all the latest that we have been involved in
We’re proud to support and protect the wonderfully diverse community in which we serve
We’re committed to keeping our communities safe
well and informed and our prevention and protection work plays a large role in this
Behind every firefighter there are specialist support teams all playing their part
If you need to get in touch or find a form
Your local on-call fire station is looking for new recruits
The team at Bordon Fire Station are hosting an open day for those who want to have a go and find out more about the role
If you live in Bordon or Petersfield come along and learn about becoming an on-call firefighter from 10am-2pm on Saturday 29th March
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A groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of work on a new supermarket in Bordon has been scheduled.
Some people who attended the annual town meeting said they won’t be convinced the new town centre is getting a Sainsbury’s until they see “spades in the ground”.
The retailer was hopeful of starting work on the 16,000 sq ft store after Easter but that’s been put back with a ceremonial groundbreaking event earmarked for May 23.
Whitehill Town Council leader, Cllr Andy Tree, said most of the “big machinery” is expected to arrive in June.
He said: “Whilst I cannot personally guarantee the timescales of a third party developer and builder, I am at least pleased we are finally getting somewhere.”
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It has been an historic week in UK politics. All around the country, the Conservative and Labour votes have crumbled, with Reform UK winning the lion's share of support.
Something is definitely happening. A group of Surrey Reform members visited Runcorn recently to help campaign, and we were met on the doorsteps with huge levels of support.
But also something else – a feeling of exasperation, frustration, and anger with successive governments and the impacts that ill-thought-through policies have had on their lives.
Issues ranging from the Prime Minister not knowing what a woman is, to the removal of winter fuel payments, and the sense of injustice at a local hotel housing illegal migrants at the taxpayers' expense – all while local people are struggling with sky-high bills, high unemployment, and a lack of local services.
We were asked repeatedly on the doorsteps: “How is this fair to us?”; “What do the Government think they are doing?” – and some far more direct, expletive-laden comments regarding the intellect of those MPs in Westminster.
All the people we spoke to wanted to see a return to common sense, fairness, honesty and, that word most despised by those on the left of politics, a patriotic government which puts the interests of the country and its people first.
Ged Hall, Chairman Reform UK, Farnham and Bordon
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Banking services will soon be returning to Whitehill & Bordon as a new banking hub is set to open in April.
After a campaign by East Hampshire District Council and former MP Damian Hinds - supported by our new MP Greg Stafford - the new service is being brought to town by not-for-profit group Cash Access UK (LINK).
It will open first in a temporary location in The Shed while a permanent site is sought and will offer services from the following banks.
Monday – Lloyds Tuesday – HSBC Wednesday – Barclays Thursday – NatWest Friday – Santander
You can find out more about the services offered by the banking hub through the website below
Cash Access
EHDC Portfolio Holder for Whitehill & Bordon
said: “I am delighted the banking hub is finally coming
who took over as the MP for Whitehill & Bordon after the election in July.
“It’s great to see this hard work coming to fruition for local residents who have been without any access to a high street bank since the closure of the Lloyds branch in 2017.”
Greg Stafford MP said: "I am hugely pleased that residents will soon benefit from access to a new Banking Hub at The Shed before it later moves to a dedicated permanent location
"The area has been without a bank since 2017 and following the success of the existing Hub in Haslemere
I know how much of a difference this will make to those that rely on in-person services
especially local charities and small businesses."
There is no place in Bordon for the vandals who daubed a Bordon underpass with racist graffiti.
That’s the belief of community figures after several “upsetting” and highly offensive messages were sprayed on the walls of the Camp Road underpass.
It is thought the anti-Muslim and pro-UKIP messages are aimed at Afghans who are being temporarily housed in MOD properties on nearby Trenchard Park.
The Afghans living in transitional accommodation are part of a “select group” who endangered themselves to help UK armed forces in their homeland.
Most of the graffiti – which is not suitable for publication – is confined to the steps and ramp on the Post Office side of the underpass.
But arguably the worst message has been daubed close to the underground mural which marks Bordon’s military links and Remembrance.
Imam Adeel Shah, who is a prominent member of the Ahmadiyya community in addition to being a district and town councillor, said he was flooded with offers of help and support within hours of the graffiti appearing.
He said: “When I made my post on social media about the graffiti within seconds people were contacting me.
“I don’t think it’s directed at my (Ahmadiyya) community and I think it’s directed towards the Afghans, but it’s still a very sad thing and it’s upsetting.
“I sat with five of them not long ago and one of them told me their uncle was killed for helping the British Army. Another was threatened for being a translator. They helped us.”
Ray Wilson, a Bordon resident who lives off Chalet Hill and who was walking through the area on Wednesday morning, called the graffiti “dreadful”.
He said: “It’s sad to see and you’ve got to wonder. I just hope they find who did it.”
Whitehill Town Council leader, Cllr Andy Tree, called the graffiti “awful”.
He added: “The overwhelming majority of residents in Whitehill & Bordon are good people but it only takes one person out of 15,000 to do something like this and it’s very disappointing and upsetting.”
Numerous residents have offered to paint over the offensive graffiti but have told to hold off in case the police need to gather evidence.
The police and Hampshire County Council have been informed and are aware of the graffiti, which will eventually be cleaned up by the latter.
Anyone with any information should call Hampshire Police on 101 quoting crime reference number 44250131528 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Tickets for cricket-themed play Duck at The Phoenix Theatre and Arts Centre in Bordon on May 14 at 7.30pm are available for just £5.
This is thanks to a Councillor Community Grant from East Hampshire district councillor Adeel Shah to “support access to diverse storytelling for under-represented audiences”.
Duck, by award-winning playwright Maatin, is set in England’s Ashes-winning summer of 2005 when British Indian 14-year-old Ismail is about to become the youngest-ever player in his elite public school’s first XI cricket team.
He sets his sights on immortality, breaking the school batting record and getting his name into Wisden. The play is about adolescence, the pressures of sporting competition and finding your identity in an environment that does not cater for difference.
The tale speaks about themes of belonging and representation, making it perfect for an initiative aimed at inclusion and community engagement.
Phoenix chief executive Rob Allerston said: “We’re incredibly grateful to East Hampshire District Council for this support. Our building should be for everyone, and this funding helps break down barriers – whether financial or cultural – to ensure more people in our community feel welcome in our venue and see their stories reflected on stage.”
Cllr Shah added: "The best way to bring a community together is to allow people of all backgrounds to experience different cultures that they might not know much about.
“It's a pleasure to share part of my grant with the Phoenix centre to contribute towards the people of Whitehill & Bordon coming together and finding another reason to learn about each other."
The Councillor Community Grant scheme enables local organisations and community groups to apply for funding that benefits East Hampshire residents.
A Phoenix spokesperson added: “This grant demonstrates the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting cultural activity and inclusive programming across the district.”
For tickets call 01420 472664 or visit phoenixarts.co.uk
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This unique musical journey without borders has been taking place for 15 years and this will be the second time it has visited Bordon.
It is the brainchild of Addictive TV's Graham Daniels and Françoise Lamy, who filmed hundreds of musicians who were all simply improvising. They then sampled them to compose music of extraordinary fusions, connecting cultures via a huge array of instruments, many traditional, some rare and others newly-invented.
Filming the musicians was a vast undertaking which became a vital part of their travels while touring internationally.
Graham said: “We took filming equipment to every gig, filming local musicians with instruments, some I’d never even heard of. Then, like a huge jigsaw puzzle, we looked for samples that fitted together, exploring different possibilities and taking the instruments to a new musical space.”
Françoise added: "It really is like a long hands-on ethnomusicology course. Working with incredible musicians in places like Senegal and India has been a real discovery, an absolute eye-opener into how all music can be connected."
From Kazakhstan to Colombia, China to Indonesia, immerse yourself in mesmerising rhythmic dialogues with sampled musicians on screen and live musicians on stage.
Before the performance there will be a short talk and a question and answer session with the artists, including some behind the scenes footage of recordings.
Joining Addictive TV's Graham Daniels on stage will be František Holčík from Slovakia, on clarinet and electronic wind instrument, and percussionist Michael Ford.
For tickets, priced £15 or £13, visit www.phoenixarts.co.uk/whats-on/events/orchestra-samples-2025-05-10
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Residents came out in force on Sunday to enjoy the annual Oakhanger May Fayre on the village green.
The afternoon event had something for everyone with food and drink, numerous stalls and live music.
Maypole dancing followed the unveiling of Tilly Henderson as May Queen while many villagers dressed up in 1940s clothing to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
“We’ve been pleased to see that a lot of people from outside Oakhanger have come here today,” said May Fair committee member, Mandy Victor.
“It takes a lot of planning to do this and we actually start after Christmas, so we’re so happy it’s gone well.”
Watching the ceremony from a loftier position by the hall were guests of honour, Sheila and Steve Goater and David Chuter, who have collectively given well over a century of support to Oakhanger.
Sheila has been a key figure in Oakhanger life for 43 years and was an awarded an OBE for services to the community in the village in 2020. The current president of the Oakhanger village hall committee held various roles between 1982 and 2013 and managed the first extension of the building with her husband in the late 1990s.
Steve has served on the parish and parochial church council, was a founder member of the Oakhanger Preservation Society and organises the family sports event at the annual show.
Completing the trio is 96-year-old former Lancaster bomber radio fitter, David, who has lived in the village for more than 40 years and is responsible for the beautiful gardens at Oakhanger Cottage.
The trio watched the festivities unfold with burgers being flipped, beer being served and the Kings Shanty Men belting out some seafaring classics.
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Plans to give a concrete patch in Bordon a playful makeover are moving forward.
Whitehill Town Council is keen to install a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) on the former EHDC car park at Mill Chase recreation ground.
The barren patch, which no longer has vehicular access, was one of several EHDC sites around Whitehill & Bordon and the district deemed surplus to requirements last year.
And with WTC keen to increase recreational provision in the area following the closure of Mill Chase school, a MUGA is high on their wishlist.
Members of the WTC Executive Committee recently took a step towards making that dream a reality by selecting a potential contractor.
A consultation and planning application are in the pipeline while Section 106 developer cash from the Miller Homes development has been earmarked for the scheme.
“I’ve been working really hard on this and the planning permission will be for the floodlights as the fence already exists,” said councillor Catherine Clark during the Forest Community Centre meeting.
“The next stage is consultation and questions will be sent out to the public.”
“This is us getting it together and planning permission is the next step,” said deputy town clerk, Raymond Ramsay.
Although the ball is rolling it may be a couple of years before the facility opens because the latest window for Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding has closed.
But WTC leader, councillor Andy Tree, has called the project “exciting” for the council and residents.
He said: “It’s really good to be doing projects like this.
“It will be of great benefit to residents of this part of town.”
In other recreational news, WTC and the Deadwater Valley Trust have also confirmed that repairs to the Lindford Link boardwalk are due to take place this week with a section being closed.
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But even though work on a new Sainsbury’s store could begin next month, many people won’t be convinced change is coming until “spades are in the ground”.
There were some big updates at the Annual Town Assembly with key figures from Sainsbury’s and the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company speaking at the Forest Community Centre.
Christian Wakelin, Head of Supermarket Development for the retailer, said his firm is “super proud to be part of the scheme” with a 16,000 square foot store planned.
He revealed that groundwork on the £7million store could begin next month with May 2026 being circled on the calendar for a potential opening date.
He said the “very accessible store” would also create 100 “high quality jobs” while an adjacent multi-level car park will have 221 spaces.
James Child, project director for the WBRC, claimed the opening of the Sainsbury’s 2026 would start a chain of key developments, and would be followed by the opening of the health hub in 2027, with the Mess Hall next in line.
But while he remains “optimistic” about the future of the town and the regeneration process, he admitted that 2024 was “appalling” and things hadn’t gone to plan.
He said: “It slowed down but we weren’t alone and it was a similar story throughout the industry.
“But we’re back on it and we’ll be delivering.”
After one resident labelled The Shed a ‘glorified Uber Eats’, Mr Child also defended the facility, calling it a “great venue” that attracts 800 to 1,200 people a day.
But some audience members spoke of promises not being kept and dreams being broken, with Barratts luring house-buyers in with talk of exciting facilities.
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Work will soon be under way on a new sports and play equipment park in Whitehill & Bordon that will feature equipment specifically asked for by local residents.
The facilities in Hollybrook Park will be suitable for children of all ages
with new football goals and an outdoor gym.
In December we asked local residents to let us know what equipment they’d like to see included.
an outdoor gym, a basketball hoop and surfacing which allows the park to be used all-year round – and the new playpark design includes all those fabulous features.
Work is due to begin on Monday 4 November and is expected to be completed by Christmas
The project will be funded largely by £164,000 of developer contributions
As part of the planning process developers make financial contributions towards upgrading local infrastructure.
Local people can bid for the money to help fund community projects
Applications are then assessed by officers and
are approved or declined by Cllr Andy Tree
EHDC Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for the Whitehill & Bordon area.
a number of residents expressed concern to me that they felt Hollybrook playpark needed improvement and that local residents in this part of Bordon deserve a proper upgrade
I agreed and decided to try and do something about it
"I am really pleased to have been able to approve £164,662 to be spent on the improvements
with the funding coming from developer contributions earmarked for open spaces and sports facilities
"This is a really exciting project where the playpark will be suitable for wide range of age groups and will usable all year round
I’m particularly pleased that we have been able to accommodate so many of the residents’ requests through the public consultation into the final design
I can’t wait to see it completed and being used."
A new aquatic adventure zone for children is a step closer to Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre after EHDC’s Cabinet meeting on Thursday night.
Plans are in place to extend the leisure centre
The final Splashpad design is not yet complete but waterslides and interactive water play areas are under consideration.
Cabinet has recommended to council that the work be accounted for in the forthcoming budget
The proposed new indoor swimming facility would be ideal for young families with market research showing there is a huge demand for this type of attraction
Families will be drawn from neighbouring areas to enjoy it
so the council will look to part-fund the project with developer contributions from other authorities.
Research shows that Whitehill & Bordon is the best location to host it
allowing easy access for residents from around East Hampshire and further afield
Currently the only leisure pool in the district is in the Taro Leisure Centre
Whereas the Taro Leisure Centre and Alton Sports Centre offer family and junior activity facilities
there is currently nothing for that age range at Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre.
said: “We are always looking to improve the leisure facilities in East Hampshire.
“An aquatic adventure zone would be the perfect addition to the other brand new facilities already delivered in Whitehill & Bordon.
“The leisure centre itself was only opened in 2020 and if we can extend it with a new fun pool and splashpad it will fill a gap in the market by providing a dedicated leisure water space for families."
EHDC Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Whitehill & Bordon
said: “Whitehill & Bordon is the perfect spot for an exciting facility like this which would increase water confidence for young children and create an opportunity for families to come together
and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.
“There is nothing else quite like this in the wider area and once it is in place it will draw people into the town from around the district and from neigbouring areas
bringing more footfall and more money into the town
"When we as councillors are elected to serve residents
it is incredibly exciting to be moving forward this project.”
The on-call team at Bordon Fire Station will once again be hosting their drive-thru Santa’s Grotto event on Saturday 14th December
The crew are set to take bookings from a week before
All the money raised will be going to The Fire Fighters Charity
Hampshire’s first banking hub is coming to Bordon with a temporary location now confirmed.
Cash Access UK (LINK) has confirmed the hub is coming to The Shed, echoing announcements from Councillor Andy Tree and Greg Stafford MP.
The latter said the hub could open in April although this hasn’t been confirmed, with LINK reporting that an opening date has yet to be finalised.
Bordon has been without a “proper bank” since Lloyds closed its Camp Road branch in 2017, forcing residents to travel to Alton, Farnham, Petersfield, Haslemere and further afield for some counter services.
But there have long been moves to fill the gap, with the Haslemere hub service being considered a success.
Damian Hinds MP, EHDC and councillors Andy Tree and Richard Millard have been namechecked for their bid in bringing the hub to The Shed.
“I know how much work has gone into making this happen,” said Mr Stafford, adding he is pushing for similar services in Liphook and Farnham.
“While a permanent location is being sorted, The Shed will be a temporary home for the hub. But I’ll keep working with LINK to make sure we secure a long-term site as soon as possible.”
“I am delighted that LINK are in the process of sourcing a permanent location for their banking hub and in the meantime will open from a unit within The Shed,” added Cllr Tree.
“I am very pleased about this, remembering how upset I was back in 2017 when Lloyds closed its Camp Road branch, and I moaned about the lack of consultation at the time.”
He added: “It’s also been good to see an MPs office and council working together to achieve results.”
The hub will offer services from Lloyds, HSBC, Barclays, NatWest and Santander on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, respectively.
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A deal to bring one of Britain’s biggest supermarkets to Bordon’s new town centre has been signed.
Sainsbury’s is definitely coming to Whitehill & Bordon as contracts were officially signed on Thursday (March 27).
The move has been hailed as a “significant milestone” in the regeneration of W&B with groundwork expected to start on the 16,000 sq. ft supermarket after Easter.
As reported in last week’s Herald, the store could welcome its first customers in summer 2026 with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company both proud to announce the breakthrough.
“We are genuinely delighted to be able to confirm that Sainsbury’s will be opening a brand new food store in Bordon,” said James Child, project lead at the WBRC.
“This is a huge milestone for regeneration of the town centre, and we are determined that this will mark the start of a busy period for the delivery of new and improved infrastructure in the town.”
“Securing Sainsbury’s as our food store operator for W&B is a hugely important milestone,” added Robert Smith, head of major disposals at the DIO.
“Significant work has been undertaken over the last couple of years to align our town centre plans with some of the wider macro-economic challenges in this sector.”
Whitehill Town Council leader, Cllr Andy Tree, said he can’t wait to see “spades in the ground” while Patrick Dunne, chief property and procurement officer at Sainsbury’s, is thrilled that contracts have been signed.
He said: “We look forward to becoming an integral part of the community and welcoming our first customers when we open the doors of our new store next year."
The store will include a Click & Collect service so customers can also access Argos, Habitat and Tu Clothing products, while a car park with 221 spaces will be built adjacent.
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The world was a different place before Covid and the first lockdown. There was much excitement in Whitehill & Bordon following the opening of The Shed and promises of exciting shops, attractions and infrastructure to come to meet the growing population.
But five years on, progress has slowed and some residents are feeling cheated having been “sold a dream”. James Child, project lead at the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, gave an update last week on what the future holds for the East Hampshire town.
Some were there to get awards for their community work, while others wanted an update about plans for a new Sainsbury’s in the town centre.
But the biggest draw may well have been the chance to get an update and ask questions to the man overseeing the regeneration of Whitehill & Bordon.
James Child, project leader at the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company (WBRC), has faced a fair bit of criticism over the last half decade amid concerns that promises haven’t been kept for new residents.
True, there’s been plenty of things to shout about: The A325 bypass, there’s a gleaming new secondary school in the form of Oakmoor, and love it or loathe it, but The Shed has welcomed more than a million visitors since it opened before Covid. A new leisure centre has also been built to replace the lost facilities at Mill Chase.
But for every positive, there seems to be a negative. The Shed is either too hot or cold and not as exciting as it used to be.
Oakmoor and the leisure centre were too small to start with and are already being extended. And that’s before we mention the health hub, cinema, Mess Hall, the Future Skills Centre, and the endless construction of new housing with seemingly little in return in ways of infrastructure or treats.
So the recent Annual Town Meeting in the Forest Community Centre was a chance to get an update from the horse’s mouth on why progress has slowed and what the future holds for residents who were “sold a dream”.
“I moved here in 2017 with my wife and children,” said Courtney Epps, the first member of the audience to speak at the meeting.
We went to the Barratts office and they spent about an hour talking about all the facilities coming to Bordon.
“There was no talk about properties, it was all about the fantastic shops, the health centre and things coming to the town centre. That’s what they were selling.
“In reality we’ve had an *expletive* show.
“We have a shed that’s not fit for purpose and it’s a glorified Uber Eats. The leisure centre is too small and Oakmoor School was built too small.
“How are things really going to move forward?” Mr Child admitted to the audience that 2024 had been an “appalling year” and that things had slowed down, not just locally, but nationally due to rising costs and labour shortages among other reasons.
He insists the WBRC and its partners are now “back on it” and set to deliver with his announcement being followed up a week later with Sainsbury’s signing a contract to build a 16,000 square foot store in the town centre.
While many will view that as a positive – Mr Child called it a “big thing” and a “positive” to have three food retailers in W&B – others feel it’s a slight let down.
The store will be smaller than the Liphook branch while the area is well-stocked with Sainsbury’s, given they also have stores in Farnham and Alton. At least Morrisons, the retailer intended for the town centre, would have provided something different with their nearest branches being in Horndean and Aldershot.
Groundwork will begin on the store after Easter with a summer 2026 opening date being circled on the calendar. Mr Child and his partners hope that will begin a domino effect of development, with the store’s arrival being followed by the health hub and the Mess Hall…
Last autumn the Herald ran a story about five years of The Shed and the venue welcoming its millionth visitor.
Such a milestone would normally be welcomed, but it barely raised an eyelid. Within a few months of the article the last original tenant had left, following on from the likes of Dylans and Hermanos.
One of the big criticisms about The Shed is that its cavernous nature makes it susceptible to temperature changes, with trader claims that bosses were unwilling to whack up the heating during colder periods.
Mr Child told residents that efforts will be made to address its fluctuating temperatures, while affirming his believe The Shed has been a success.
He said: “I still believe The Shed is a great venue and 800 to 1,200 people go through it every day.
“Yes, it can be cold in winter, so we’re bringing in heat source system to try and address that. And in summer, yes it can get hot so we need to address those concerns.”
And what about a cinema? Readers may remember that a multiplex was part of “the dream” but it seems that proposal has been well and truly cut.
Mr Child added: “We did have plans and had two cinema operators lined-up to make that happen.
“We had two well-known operators waiting to come in but the world and their operating model changed through Covid. They’re no longer financially viable without paying them to be here.
“It would cost the scheme £10million just to open a cinema and effectively give them money to operate it. They’re not packed out as they used to be and you’ve only got to look at the one in Brightwells to see that.”
While a cinema won’t be going up, things could be coming down within the next couple of years at Sandhurst Block.
The imposing clock tower building is in a sorry state and is often a byword for anti-social behaviour, with residents asking when renovation will finally begin amid concerns about safety and its potential for future vandalism.
Residents heard the block’s renovation is part of the second phase of the town centre work but the demolition of its wings could be brought forward because of said issues, with talks taking place with developers and consultants.
Bruce Collinson, WBRC project manager: “It’s true we’ve had some anti-social behaviour at that building and we’ve done our best to board it up and seal up the windows.
“We have onsite security and other security systems so the anti-social behaviour has reduced, recently.
“We are looking to make it more attractive but we do need to do that sympathetically.”
Mr Child added: “We’ve spoken to East Hampshire District Council about getting permission to demolish the wings sooner.
“We’re looking at getting them demolished next year and we’ve started consultations, but that is a really big demolition project.”
While many at the meeting and afterwards spoke of needing to see “spades in grounds” the meeting finished with a mood of cautious optimism.
There’s hope for the Future Skills Centre as Whitehill Town Council leader, Cllr Andy Tree, said Hampshire County Council have begun negotiations with an education provider, while the ‘Northern Gateway’ EcoStation site looks set to remain in community use.
And like Cllr Tree, Mr Child seems confident that big things are coming to Whitehill & Bordon, albeit later than expected.
He said: “It’s an endless thing for me, because I want to get it right.
“I’m optimistic about the future but with a tinge of realism.”
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Concerns are growing for the welfare of a Bordon man reported missing this morning (Thursday, March 20).
Police are keen to locate Karston Waller with the 53-year-old last being seen at Sacred Heart Church on the High Street at 6.30am today.
Officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries but are extremely concerned for his welfare so they’ve asked for the public’s help.
Karston is described as a balding and shaven white man with a large build, who was last seen wearing a green body warmer and cream jogging bottoms.
If anyone has seen Karston, or has any information about his current whereabouts, please call 999 and quote incident number 44250120927.
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There are fears that the Whitehill and Bordon Health Hub could be a project under no control, county councillors have warned.
An update on the new health hub at Whitehill and Bordon has been strongly criticised by Hampshire county councillors, who said the delivery of the health hub could be at risk since the lease for primary medical care has yet to be signed.
In recent months, Badgerswood and Forest GP Surgery, which would provide primary care and community health services in the hub, applied to build a single-storey pharmacy next to Forest Medical Surgery. This involved moving the Chase Pharmacy based within the practice into a new building on the part of the car park north-west of the surgery.
The move raised concerns in the local community, who said the action “makes no sense”.
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (ICB) said in a report presented at the Hampshire County Council meeting (November 26) that the lease of the building in terms of providing primary care and community health is “the critical enabler” to permit the procurement of the building in January 2025.
The report reads: “The lease must be completed by the end of this year to enable the health hub delivery and occupation by all health services as planned in 2026/2027.”
Those concerns were exposed at the meeting when Cllr Andy Tree of the Whitehill and Bordon Community Party wanted to clarify that point of the report.
He asked if the ICB, which plans NHS services, was suggesting that the health hub plan fails if such a contract is not in space by the end of December 2024.
Lisa Medway, of the ICB, said the Forest Surgery application to extend its practice is something they “won’t support”.
Mrs Medway said: “We’ve been very clear that this is something we wish not to be looking to reinvest in additional space. The plan is to relocate to the care hub.
“If the GP surgery chooses not to sign a lease or to relocate into the health hub, there will be no GP surgery within the health hub facility. I don’t think, honestly, that this would happen. We are having really open and honest conversations with the practice.”
The ICB said that the application from Forest Surgery is a preventive measure for a private business when they feel “uncertainties” from the public sector about committing to the health hub model.
An ICB officer said: “We, as the ICB, along with the stakeholders, committed to this project a while ago, and we are in the process of delivering it. We are communicating with the GP practice, maintaining confidence that the hub will be built.
“There are delicate conversations that have to be had over the next month. But that process and those conversations would be much easier when they can clearly observe that the public sector remains committed to a project they [public sector] initiated a while ago.”
Despite ICB comments, Cllr Stephen Reid said that after hearing the conversation he was not assured that the project, which would also see Chase Community Hospital services move to the site, would definitely happen.
“I don’t think that we can take for what you told us today that this is definitely going to happen.
“We’ve got questions. Is the lease going to be signed by the end of the year? I don’t think so […] What you have told me today is very useful, thank you very much, but I have this horrible feeling that this project is not under control and there is a lot more work to be done to be delivered.”
The committee, with some members who feared the project might not be under control, will receive an update in the upcoming months.
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The stage is set for budding musicians to perform at a Bordon theatre in a county first
The Phoenix Theatre and Arts Centre will play host to some of Hampshire’s finest young musicians this spring as it’s holding the county’s first ever youth music festival
The Rising Music Festival will be a two-day celebration of youth music over the weekend of June 21
The Station Road venue and the BackBeat Collective have joined forces to give up-and-coming musicians and performers under 24 a chance to showcase their skills during a “spectacular weekend of entertainment”
“We need help to put this festival on the map,” said a spokesperson for the Phoenix
photographer or fancy getting involved behind the scenes
The “innovative” festival isn’t just for musically minded teens and early 20-somethings as it will include mini musician workshops for toddlers and pre-schoolers
There will also be interactive sessions for older kids and performances which span all genres from classical
A Battle of the Bands competition for under 24s has also begun with a headline slot at the festival being the top prize
with the next two taking place on April 27 and June 1
Organisers have also launched a competition to design a festival logo
while a series of free workshops aimed at young people who are interested in a career in the arts is part of the programme
Visit www.risingmusicfestival.co.uk for more information and tickets, anyone who would like to help our should email [email protected]
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Time is running out for Whitehill & Bordon residents to nominate the town’s unsung heroes and community groups for a prestigious award
There’s two good reasons why residents should check out the Annual Town Assembly in the Forest Community Centre on Thursday
The W&B Community Awards 2025 will be presented to some of the town’s great and good during the Whitehill Town Council-organised event
But residents could also get an update on the bid to open a Sainsbury’s in the town centre
with the retailer and the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company expected to give presentations at the landmark meeting
Residents have less than a fortnight to nominate a person or group for a community award as the deadline for nominations is Wednesday
Nominations are being sought in four categories: Outstanding Youth Awards for years 1-6 and 7-13
Nominations can be made through the ‘community awards’ section at www.whitehilltowncouncil.gov.uk while hardcopy forms are also available from the town council offices.
All nominees must either live, work or go to school in the Whitehill & Bordon parish, and must be available for the day of the event.
The meeting will also give residents a chance to learn more about what WTC and various key groups have achieved over the last year and their future plans.
There will also be presentations with figures from the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, Sainsbury’s and potentially Asmodee being lined-up to speak by WTC.
The council is also working hard on its VE Day event on May 8 with a flag raising and beacon lighting ceremony planned at the community centre and Whitehill village hall, respectively.
A community centre will also host the Mayor’s Charity event on May 10 with stalls and live music planned.
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It began, like most good things, with a cuppa.
In 1985 the inaugural tenants, wardens and a few others got together for some coffee in the communal lounge of Shaftesbury Court.
Things may have changed over the last 40 years, but the nattering and convivial atmosphere has remained the same at the retirement home in Bordon.
Tea and coffee were served up again on Thursday (April 17) as residents, staff and supporters celebrated the home’s ruby anniversary.
Town crier Stuart Morrison got the party started while the festivities included birthday cake and the taking of a commemorative group photo. Old Herald cuttings and photo books were brought out and residents enjoyed a birthday buffet.
“It’s changed a lot over the years but I feel safe here,” said Terry Whitehead, who moved in 21 years ago and is the home’s longest residing resident.
“It was empty when I came in but I was like ‘yes, I’m home’. The funny thing is I still feel that way.”
It’s also been a home-from-home for cleaner, Janice, who has worked part-time at Shaftesbury Court since 1995.
She said: “There’s been a lot of residents that have stuck in my mind over the years and we’ve lots of interesting characters with their own personalities, and that’s what makes a place.”
She added: “We’ve also had a peacock that has been turning up for the last two-and-a-half years. That’s probably my favourite resident.”
The 40-unit complex for the elderly and disabled was provided by the Shaftesbury Society Housing Association, with Sanctuary Housing now managing.
Some 42 residents call the building home while it remains a popular choice, especially with its close links to the Forest Shopping Centre, surgery and Chase Hospital.
Manager Kim Valler said: “I still have people knocking on the office window now asking if there’s vacancies.”
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It looks like a housebuilder will have the final say in whether a “bat hotel” in Bordon will be rebuilt after being targeted by arsonists.
It’s taken several months to establish ownership of the now-demolished shed close to Oxney Way that housed several hundred bats.
There was much anger around Whitehill & Bordon when the small house-like structure was all but destroyed last November after being targeted by teenage arsonists.
But confusion followed the blaze as no-one took responsibility for the building with Barratts only recently owning up.
Whitehill Town Council, which has no involvement in the building, and their leader Cllr Andy Tree, made enquiries following the angry reaction from residents about the mindless arson.
“It’s not town council land but there was a big public outcry from some of the community when it burned down,” said Ray Ramsay, deputy town clerk, to the WTC Executive Committee.
“I’ve been emailing Taylor Wimpey Homes and the word for their response has been ‘sporadic’ as we’ve tried to get an update.
“But Barratt Homes have now said it’s theirs so that’s the update. Apparently there has been consultation with a company about replacing it but unfortunately, communication has been sparse.”
Councillors questioned if the ‘hotel’ needed replacing – one said WTC shouldn’t waste its time – as it’s on private land and its former nocturnal residents have long left the site.
Cllr Roger Russell suggested the hotel was built as a planning condition, so may need to be reconstructed.
“People have found it quite extraordinary that no-one is responsible for this facility and the police couldn’t even establish the owners,” said Cllr Tree.
“It was a big issue locally and people were quite upset by it. But we’ve identified who is responsible and what they’re doing, so we’ve done our bit.”
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Another reminder of Bordon’s military past is set to disappear as a virtual exhibition to showcase plans for 146 new homes has gone live
Life in Whitehill & Bordon seems have three certainties: death
taxes and a constant push to build more homes
The latest big proposal comes from Vistry Group as they’ve outlined plans to redevelop land between Budds Lane
The development will be the fourth phase of the Prince Philip Park scheme which has seen hundreds of homes constructed on former military land with more to come
The proposals are currently at a draft stage so Vistry Group wants residents to comment and make suggestions before lodging a firm planning application with East Hampshire District Council
Leaflets have been distributed locally while the firm have encouraged residents to make comments through their https://phase4-bordon.squarespace.com website before the end of February.
The 4.39 hectare site earmarked for housing currently includes a community building, disused car park, former Army sports ground and a section of the Whitehill & Bordon Enterprise Park.
The development will include a mixture of one to five-bedroom homes with 15 per cent affordable housing along with landscaping and a play area.
“Significant areas of open space” have also been promised with access coming from the currently blocked-off car park on Budds Lane previously used by parents of Oakmoor students.
“The draft proposals have been sensitively designed,” said a spokesperson for Vistry Group.
“They include significant areas of open space, to create an attractive and landscape-led development, whilst delivering much needed new homes to help meet the housing needs of the area.
“This exhibition has been arranged to provide the community with the opportunity to view and comment on the draft proposals ahead of the scheme being finalised.”
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A supermarket has reassured a councillor they are keen to get open and trading in Bordon with a New Year’s “meet and greet” with residents planned.
Sainsbury’s remains committed to opening a branch in Bordon town centre according to Cllr Andy Tree as he’s seen floorplans and confidential papers.
The Whitehill Town Council leader recently met the firm’s Head of Supermarket Development amid recent concern about the pace of development in the town centre.
And the response was encouraging with Sainsbury’s talking Cllr Tree through their plans – which include an Argos click and collect point – in a direct reassurance.
He said: “They are keen to get open and start trading.
“I was told paperwork, solicitors, bureaucracy and the like is being worked through, prior to construction.
“Sainsbury's plan to come and meet at a public meeting in early 2025, which will be a great opportunity for everyone to learn more. My guess, and it’s just a guess, is that it will be ready in 2026.”
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A body found in East Hampshire is believed to be that of a man who has been missing since October, according to Police.
Ian Taylor, 75, from Bordon, was last seen in the Spar shop on Liphook Road in Lindford just before 9pm on October 10.
Police made the discovery in Headley Down yesterday (Friday, December 20).
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: “Officers searching for missing Ian Taylor have now sadly found a body. The discovery was made yesterday (December 20) in Headley Down.
"Formal identification has not been completed at this time, but it is believed to be Ian and his family have been informed.
"Ian's death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner."
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A village near Bordon is about to lose its bottle as changes to glass collections are imminent.
East Hampshire District Council has confirmed that a skip-sized bottle bank in Lindford will be one of the first to be removed following a change in policy.
The bottle bank on Chase Road is one of six around the district that will be permanently removed in October while the one at Bordon Tesco High Street will be replaced with a smaller, temporary version.
The bottle banks are being removed as glass collections from homes will double from four weeks to every fortnight from October 1.
The council believes residents shouldn’t need bottle banks if everyone is having fortnightly glass collections.
The skip-size bins at Petersfield Tesco, Liss Hill Brow Road, Alton Wooteys Alton and Clanfield White Dirt Lane will also be removed while another at Applegarth Farm will be relocated to the EHDC car park in Grayshott.
The skip-sized bottle banks on Alton Turk Street, Central Car Park Petersfield, Winchester Road car park in Four Marks and Morrisons Horndean will be replaced with a smaller version next month ahead of their phased removal by January.
Communal glass bins in flats or shared accommodation will also be emptied fortnightly with residents encouraged to use the 38-litre box provided by EHDC.
Residents who fill their glass collection bins can place excess bottles in a similar box, but it needs to be under 5.5kg in weight for crews to safely empty it.
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There was no New Year’s hangover for local members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as they began the year with a dawn litter pick.
Around a dozen residents and volunteers – including a reporter from the Herald – joined them for the 7am tidy-up with paths and roads around The Forest Centre being given an early spring clean.
Conditions weren’t ideal as the pickers battled strong winds and rain – not to mention a lack of sunlight – in a bracing start to the New Year.
But they still managed to fill more than a dozen bags within 45 minutes, with a traffic cone, tyre and miniature shopping trolley being among the recovered items.
The experience certainly “blew the cobwebs away” while scout leaders, WI members and community-minded residents were among the party.
“I just thought it would be a nice way to start the New Year, by doing a good deed,” said Bordon Belles WI member, Fliss Cooper.
“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community does this every year,” said councillor Adeel Shah to pickers who gathered in the shopping centre.
“On the first of January we get together at 6am, we prayed together and now we do this. It’s giving back to the community and we do this every single year.”
He added: “We’re starting the New Year by giving back.”
The undergrowth beside the path alongside B&M which links the shopping centre to Forest Road was a grotty spot with numerous empty cans and several tied-up bags of dog waste being pulled out of the undergrowth.
Volunteers were thanked for their efforts with a free breakfast before several Ahmadiyya members travelled to Portsmouth to deliver toys to children in hospital.
The community held similar New Year events around the UK.
An inspirational youngster who wants to make “Bordon look better” has called on residents to join his community litter pick.
Nine-year-old Thomas Gray has organised a litter pick around Bordon Inclosure next weekend as he wants to make the town and planet cleaner.
But the youngster and his family would love a helping hand, with residents being invited to give the beauty spot an early spring clean next Sunday, February 2.
“He would be over the moon if this is well attended,” said his mother, Sandra.
The event is being supported by the Whitehill & Bordon Community Party and Deadwater Valley Trust.
Participants should meet at 10am at Café 1759 for the two-hour clean-up, rangers will have some litter pickers available while gloves are recommended.
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Employers looking to recruit can showcase their vacancies and meet new talent at the upcoming New Directions Jobs Fair.
Held at the Forest Community Centre in Bordon
this event presents a perfect opportunity for local employers to connect with prospective candidates
advertise job vacancies and support the East Hampshire community.
The event is due to take place on Thursday 13 March between 1-3pm
New Directions Job Fair
Whether you're seeking to recruit fresh talent or simply showcase your organisation
the New Directions Jobs Fair offers:
Join us at the Forest Community Centre to be a part of this initiative that strengthens local employment and fosters community connections
For more information contact Sarah Flamson, EHDC: sarah.flamson@easthants.gov.uk
A wave of excitement is washing over Whitehill & Bordon as plans to extend the town’s leisure centre and swimming pool have moved a step closer.
Cabinet members agreed on Thursday (January 16) that money in the next East Hampshire District Council budget should be set aside for an “aquatic adventure zone” at the centre.
Although some more work needs to be done on the final Splashpad design, plans for the waterslides and interactive water play areas at the facility are under consideration.
The council will splash its own cash on the development while looking to part-fund the project with developer contributions from other authorities.
They hope the “exciting” extension will attract families from around East Hampshire and further afield with market research showing a huge demand for similar attractions.
The only leisure pool in the district is in Petersfield’s Taro Centre so EHDC leader, councillor Richard Millard, believes the aquatic adventure zone will be the perfect addition to the centre and W&B.
He said: “The leisure centre itself was only opened in 2020 and if we can extend it with a new fun pool and splashpad it will fill a gap in the market by providing a dedicated leisure water space for families."
Cllr Andy Tree, EHDC Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for W&B, said: “Whitehill & Bordon is the perfect spot for an exciting facility like this.
“It will increase water confidence for young children and create an opportunity for families to come together, and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.”
Cllr Tree added: “There is nothing else quite like this in the wider area and once it is in place it will draw people into the town from around the district and from neighbouring areas, bringing more footfall and more money into the town.”
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A charity has put on the pounds on thanks to the efforts slimmers in Bordon.
The weight for results is over at Bordon Slimming World as members have raised £7,750 for Cancer Research UK.
The charity made the material gain because slimmers were encouraged to donate their ill-fitting former clothes.
Members of the group run by Helen Pettitt at Whitehill Village Hall every Thursday and Friday made a huge donation, with 310 bags behind handed over.
“So many of us have lost loved ones to cancer, so we all jumped at the chance to support the charity.”
She added that CRUK estimates that each bag is worth a minimum of £25.
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Crime dropped to its lowest level for more than a year in Bordon in December according to the latest police map.
Some 58 reports were made during the month, well below the previous low of 79 in May, with 32 involving violence or sexual offences (VSO).
There were six reports of criminal damage while burglaries were reported on Douglas Drive and Gibbs Lane, and two offences involving drugs took place in the Forest Centre area.
The most “crime-ridden” road was Willow Close with five VSOs being reported during the month.
Some 81 reports were made in the Longmoor Rural patch which includes Whitehill and Headley, with two burglaries taking place in the Church Fields area of the latter. More at www.police.uk
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Easter came early this week at a specialist school in Bordon with a surprise visit from a special guest
Bluebird Care brought joy to Hollywater School with an unexpected appearance from the Easter Bunny, who came bearing chocolate eggs for staff and students.
The initiative was in honour of the new partnership between the two organisations. This collaboration will transform care services at the school, with Bluebird providing a team of care assistants to support the individual needs of the pupils, allowing teachers and learning support assistants to focus more on the children’s education.
Hollywater School, devoted to providing outstanding education, nurtures young people aged 4 to 19 with learning disabilities.
Headteacher Maria-Brigid Ryan said: "We are dedicated to supporting pupils with a wide range of needs, so we’re thrilled to have formed this innovative partnership with Bluebird Care. Their support allows us to enhance our learning programmes, and it is wonderful that they gave our pupils this special Easter experience."
Bluebird provides home and live-in care to people of all ages to help them live the life they want. Their dedicated team at Hollywater will aid students with personal care, moving and positioning, and nutrition and hydration.
Norman Murphy Bluebird Care managing director said: “We’re delighted to partner with Hollywater School and create a lasting impact on the lives of their pupils and staff. It is fabulous to bring our care to their classrooms, and it was a pleasure to provide some early Easter cheer before their holidays.”
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People around Whitehill & Bordon have been saying ‘ello ello’ to their Chief Inspector as three councillors have led the Charge around their patch.
Andy Tree, Catherine Clark and Adeel Shah recently joined C/Insp Alex Charge on the beat.
The recently appointed Police District Commander for East Hampshire and Havant talked to residents in Jubilee Park, The Shed and Forest Community Centre in a meet-and-greet for both him and councillors.
C/Insp Charge was keen to engage with residents and emphasise the message that all crimes should be reported as resources have improved in recent years
Councillors also found the tour reassuring and interesting, as they learned that CID officers will soon work more locally and under local command of a detective inspector.
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East Hampshire District Council will soon be making a splash in Whitehill & Bordon by installing a fantastic family-friendly addition to the pool
complete with splashzone and water slides.
Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre will soon incorporate a splashpad and indoor aquatic adventure equipment to provide an exciting attraction for the town’s youngsters and an irresistible draw for families across East Hampshire.
EHDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Whitehill & Bordon Area
said: “I am incredibly excited to be announcing these facilities as it demonstrates to my fellow residents across the Whitehill & Bordon area our commitment at EHDC to deliver results
which is what we are elected as local councilors to do.
“It represents a significant investment from the council and from Everyone Active
and that means it is a clear demonstration of the commitment EHDC has to providing fantastic facilities to Whitehill & Bordon.”
Market research conducted by industry experts identified Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre as the most appropriate location to place the exciting new attraction as the most central of the district’s three leisure facilities
said the facilities will enhance East Hampshire's already extensive leisure provision
the council and Everyone Active have delivered brand new leisure centres in Alton and Whitehill & Bordon and a multi-million pound upgrade to the Taro Leisure Centre in Petersfield
He said: “Customer surveys and sector research have shown there is a need of activities for families and young people at the Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre
when compared to offerings in Petersfield and in Alton.
“That gap in the market and the central position of the Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre make this the perfect location for the new facilities which will be a huge draw for people from the town and across the district.”
Estates Division - Deputy Head of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation
said: “The proposal to extend the leisure centre is another positive step for the delivery of the town centre offering a further attraction for children and families to enjoy.”
A community is praying for good news as the search widens for a 75-year-old man from Bordon missing since last Thursday.
Hampshire Police have released new images of Ian Taylor as the search for the pensioner nears its second week.
They and their colleagues from Hampshire Search and Rescue have continued searches around Bordon, Broxhead and Lindford with the public being asked to check their gardens, outbuildings and alleyways for signs he may have been in the area.
Ian – who is described as white, 6ft 2in tall, broad build, with grey, balding hair – was last in the Lindford area around 9.40pm last Thursday. His attire is not known but he was probably wearing glasses.
People in the Lindford, Bordon, Whitehill, Headley, Headley Down, Grayshott, Hindhead or Deadwater areas have been urged to check and CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage, especially between 9pm last Thursday and 7am the following morning.
Anyone who may have seen Ian is urged to call 999 and quoting 44240442984.
Councillors have given the green light for talks to begin over the transfer of a landmark site in Bordon.
The Northern Gateway site could soon have new owners as East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) have identified a preferred bidder.
A recommendation to enter negotiations with the bidder was approved by the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee last month over the site on the corner of Camp Road and Station Road.
Members heard 14 parties submitted expressions of interest in the site – which includes the Eco-house, former fire station and Lloyds branch – after it was declared surplus to requirements.
An affordable housing provider was among them but later withdrew their bid due to site constraints.
Eight community groups and a workspace provider also made submissions along with four local businesses, albeit with an interest in a partial occupation of the site.
The name of the preferred bidder has been classified but it’s no secret that the Whitehill & Bordon Town Partnership were keen.
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A 21-year-old has been jailed for 12 years for kidnapping and raping a teenage schoolgirl as she walked to school through a woodland area
who identifies as transgender and uses they/them pronouns
was sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court today (Friday
January 24) for the attack in Bordon last September
During an appearance at the same court on Monday
committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence
causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent
and breach of a sexual harm prevention order
The court heard how the defendant had been waiting for the teenager or another victim in the Deadwater Valley area of Bordon on the morning of Friday
Smith approached the victim and threatened her with a boxcutter
you're coming with me,” and forced her to walk with him to a remote area
Smith then forced her to strip before sexually assaulting the teenager
filled a bottle with water and ordered her to wash away traces of DNA
His Honour Judge Newton-Price KC said to Smith: “Your behaviour was planned and premeditated
I judge that you must have been waiting for her or someone like her
I pay tribute to [the victim’s] extraordinary courage throughout this horrifying experience
“I hope she can now recover with the passage of time and with the love and support from her family
“You pose a significant risk to committing other offences…[and]you will cause serious harm to women,” the judge told Smith
before being brought back to Hampshire by Police Scotland officers
The judge also imposed a six-and-a-half year extended sentence on Smith
with several restrictions after release from prison
The conviction comes following an investigation which encompassed a number of different teams and resources across Hampshire Police
working alongside the Operation Amberstone team
which specialises in investigating reports of rape and sexual assault
PSI Doug Gould from Operation Amberstone said
“Today’s sentence sends a clear message that Oliver Smith’s shocking predatory behaviour will not be tolerated
“Smith’s actions have had a serious impact not only on the victim
who has shown tremendous courage throughout proceedings
but also on the community in Bordon as well
“I’d like to commend the victim for her bravery and her support and hope that this sentence will provide some closure
I also hope this case encourages others to speak out and seek support if they have been the victim of sexual assault.”
Detective Inspector Claire Shawley of Hampshire Police said: “We will not tolerate violence against women and girls in our community and I am especially pleased that we were able to apprehend Smith so swiftly
as they pose a very serious threat to the public and deserves to be behind bars
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When the doors to the Future Skills Centre closed in early summer
poor transport links were cited among the reasons for the facility’s demise
And gripes about the town’s public transport links haven’t been rare
with ongoing calls for an improved bus service between W&B
But residents could change all that – and win a prize in the process – by taking part in a crucial survey with feedback shaping a Travel Plan
The town council and the Whitehill & Bordon Living Streets Group are among the organisations who have urged locals to take part in the survey before it closes this weekend
Fifteen minutes is all it takes but the data from the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company-funded survey will help Hampshire County Council and its partners plan for the future
works or travels into W&B to complete the survey as the data will be crucial in guiding the transport strategy for the town,” said Rachel Rombough
will help us to plan and provide activities and measures that will benefit the W&B community.”
Residents have until the stroke of midnight this Sunday while people who complete the survey can also enter a prize draw to win a £100 voucher for The Pavilion at BOSC
The survey can be found at www.hants.gov.uk/whitehill-and-bordon-survey while would-be participants can request a paper version by calling 01962 845638 or emailing email [email protected]
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A controversial move to bin Bordon’s household waste and recycling centre has been scrapped – but at a cost to other services run by Hampshire County Council.
Cabinet members unanimously voted on Monday to keep a dozen HWRCs open that were previously earmarked for closure in a bid to save £1.6million.
The news has been widely welcomed with Farnham & Bordon MP Greg Stafford and county councillors Andy Tree and Debbie Curnow-Ford breathing a sigh of relief following the D-Day announcement in Winchester.
“Access to a HWRC is vital for residents in Whitehill & Bordon and the wider East Hampshire area,” said Mr Stafford.
“I am tremendously pleased to hear that today the decision was made to keep these tips open.”
Opponents feared the closures would lead to more fly-tipping and extra emissions caused by users forced to travel further afield to use HWRCs.
Even HCC leader, Cllr Nick Adams-King, admitted his doubts with the proposal, saying “it’s very clear to me the public do not support this process” with a county-wide review of the service now likely.
But while the move to save a dozen tips has been generally welcomed, a dozen other equally vital services have felt the brunt of bruising costs as HCC scrambles to save more than £170million.
The cuts include a £7.5million drop in funding for annual highway maintenance, less gritting on the county’s roads and streetlights being switched off for longer periods.
Parking charges will also be introduced at HCC-run rural sites and some local bus and taxi-share services subsidised by the council will be axed in a bid to save £570,000.
Some £2million in support for homeless services is also being axed while funding to libraries and cultural institutions is also being reduced in a bid to cut many HCC services to “the bare bones”.
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People of both sexes around Whitehill & Bordon have worn a white ribbon in support of a WI campaign to end violence against women.
The Bordon Belles WI recently handed out homemade white ribbons to organisations around the town in support of the No More Violence Against Women campaign by the National Federation of Wis.
Members felt it was the perfect time to support the 16-day campaign given the recent sexual assault in Bordon Inclosure which “shocked and saddened” the community.
They and their counterparts hope the campaign will raise more awareness of an international issue as one in three women globally will experience some kind of violence during their lifetime.
People who wear the adornment make the White Ribbon Promise to “never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women”.
The campaign has been enthusiastically backed locally with Whitehill Town Council, Wey Valley Football Club (U14s) and the 1st Headley Scouts making the promise.
The support of men has especially heartened the Belles as they believe a challenge to harmful attitudes and behaviour is part of the solution and can bring about an end to the fear of everyday violence for women.
“We were very happy to support the Bordon Belles WI White Ribbon campaign,” said David Macgregor, Wey Valley U14 Warriors manager.
“As a sports organisation we believe it is very important to encourage healthy attitudes and behaviours, especially among our young lads.”
Sarah-Jane Bellis President of Bordon Belles WI said: “We were shocked and saddened by the recent violence against a young woman in our community.
“With our white ribbons and support from local groups we want to show the people of Whitehill & Bordon, that we want and deserve a place where all are safe to live free from fear of violence.”
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