THE decision to close a women’s refuge in Bournemouth will be scrutinised next year. 

Conservative councillor Duane Farr and Labour’s Patrick Canavan tabled a motion to BCP councillors calling on a cross-party examination of the decision. 

Green councillor Joe Salmon said it is “worrying” that the decision to close the refuge earlier this year was done without any scrutiny. 

“This was a major decision. I’m no expert on domestic violence, and maybe it was the right choice, but everybody I have spoken to has said refuges are the best place to go.” 

He added the closure is of a “vital service” and he is “worried of what other scares we will see in the next two years where other essential services disappear, and we don’t find out until it’s printed in the Echo”. 

The decision to close was officer-made, not councillor-made, which a council spokesman told the Echo followed the correct procedure. 

Council leader Millie Earl said the contract with the refuge ended in July, with every family rehoused into alternative accommodation. 

She said that since the closure the demand has not changed, with no increase in the need for B&Bs or hotels. 

She added: “Our safer accommodation strategy is due to be published next year and will set out BCP Council's ongoing commitment to people experiencing domestic abuse.” 

Fellow Green councillor Sara Armstrong said: “With the increase in violence against women and girls, it’s critical to understand the rationale behind the decision to close the refuge. 

“Being able to have that inquiry cross-party is really welcome.” 

Cllr Farr “There has been no scrutiny of the decision to close Bournemouth's only Women’s Refuge for those fleeing abusive relationships. 

“We ask the decision be examined as part of a cross-party working group to be established to oversee the safe accommodation and commissioning strategy, reporting to the environment and place scrutiny committee in spring 2025. 

Cllr Canavan added: “It is really important that we have adequate accommodation for those fleeing abuse and so the idea of a cross-party working group is welcome.” 

BCP Council said the closure was "very carefully considered" after an independent review by Standing Together found the refuge was "unsuitable". 

“The review included a full consultation with residents and staff at the BCHA refuge, and those with lived experiences of domestic abuse," a spokesman said.