Alder Hills

Alder Hills is a suburb in Dorset that crosses the boundaries of Bournemouth and Poole. It is south of Wallisdown, east of Alderney and north of Branksome and Parkstone.

History

In July 2019, a huge heathland fire occurred in the area. It was reported that it could take 20 years to recover after fire. In August 2020 there was another fire.

Environment

The Alder Hills Nature Reserve is in the area. The reserve is noted for its lizard and dragonfly populations. In 1984 it was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England. The reserve is centred on a disused clay pit which has been converted into a fishing lake. The lake is fed by the Kinson Brook flowing in a culvert beneath Alder Road and drains through another culvert into Coy Pond Gardens.

Transport

Alder Road is one of the most important roads connecting Bournemouth and Poole. The road begins at Wallisdown Roundabout at Kinson Road and travels south to Branksome and Parkstone.

Facilities

Alder Hills is served by the Heatherview Medical Centre.

Politics

Alder Hills falls within two parliamentary constituencies for elections to the House of Commons. Part is within the Poole constituency, and is represented by the Labour Party politician Neil Duncan-Jordan. The other part is within the Bournemouth West constituency represented by Labour's Jessica Toale.