Published on Friday 16 January 2026
BCP Council has taken part in a major national counter terrorism training exercise led by Counter Terrorism Policing and hosted by the Dorset Local Resilience Forum (LRF) at the Port of Poole.
The two-day exercise, which forms part of regular national preparedness activity, tested the response of emergency services, local authorities, NHS partners and port authorities to a simulated terrorist incident onboard a cross-channel ferry. The scenario involved multiple casualties, fast moving developments and a coordinated multiagency emergency response.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, Cabinet member for Housing and Regulatory Services, said: “This exercise was an important opportunity for all agencies to rehearse how we would work together in the event of a major incident. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of our residents and visitors, and exercises like this help ensure we are as prepared as possible.
“I want to thank all partners involved for their professionalism and collaboration throughout the exercise.”
Council’s role in the exercise
As the lead organisation for the humanitarian response, BCP Council helped establish and operate a Reception Centre to provide practical and emotional support to those affected. Council teams also worked alongside emergency services within the Warning and Informing Cell, helping draft and coordinate public messaging used to advise residents about cordons, road closures and ways to access information about loved ones.
Council officers took part in tactical and strategic coordination meetings with Dorset Police, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, NHS England/NHS Dorset, the Poole Harbour Commissioners, the ferry operator and other LRF partners to help ensure a cohesive multiagency response throughout the exercise.
A strong partnership approach
This exercise provided a valuable opportunity for BCP Council and partners to test emergency plans in a realistic live play environment. The exercise strengthened joint working, improved shared understanding across agencies and highlighted the importance of clear communication during fast moving incidents.
BCP Council remains committed to working closely with partners to protect the public, strengthen community resilience and ensure we are well prepared for any major emergency.