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News

Business as Usual in Poole

Tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Poole were left without electricity which saw people without heat, light and telephone lines.

Cllr Brian Leverett, Leader of the Borough of Poole, said: “I must thank members of the public and staff across the borough for such a measured and considerate response to this emergency situation.  Such an event could have caused major panic and although there were obviously areas of concern, the response from people has been fantastic. 

He added: “Successful liaison between our neighbouring Councils and all public agencies ensured that services were co-ordinated and the situation handled with professionalism and care.  With such a wide area affected it was essential that people in need of extra support or advice were cared for and informed about the situation and any relevant support available.  As with any emergency situation there are always lessons to be learned and although plans went smoothly overall we will be reviewing and up-dating systems we have in place.”

Cllr Elaine Atkinson, Portfolio Holder for Community Support, said: “We encourage people to care about their neighbours and think about their community – in a situation like this it’s imperative to do so.  People in Poole showed great compassion yesterday and I would like to thank all those people, residents and staff at the Council, who went that extra bit further to ensure that vulnerable people were cared for.”

Particular thanks must go to St Michael’s Church in Hamworthy where the Council was able to set up a Rest Centre to care for vulnerable people who had no heat or light.  Working in partnership with Poole Primary Care Trust and Home Care Agencies, staff were able to contact people in need of extra support and provide them with food, warmth and care.  The Council cared for 9 residents overnight and they are all safely back in their homes today.

So it’s back to business as usual at Poole Council this morning – staff will be dealing with general enquiries as normal following events yesterday.

Rachael Mills, Media Relations Manager, Communications, Boroughof Poole tel 01202 633295