Winchester News Online
What is an ETA, and how it affects travelling to the UK?

Southampton Airport has reported a significant rise in passenger numbers in 2024, as the UK continues to roll out its new Electronic Travel Authorisation, also known as ETA.
Could the ETA help boost tourism to Southampton even more?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation was introduced this year and is now required for visitors from countries including Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
More than half a million ETA’s have already been issued, according to the UK government, which reflects strong demand for travelling within and to the UK.
The government says the scheme was designed to boost tourism by making it easier for low-risk travellers to enter the country.
The application is straightforward, and it can be done by visitors by applying online before flying, which makes it easier for tourists to cross the border more efficiently.
The ministers also argue that this scheme reduces pressure on busy arrivals halls.
Southampton Airport (SOU) handled 862,290 passengers, a 12.6% increase compared to previous years. The rise comes as airlines start using larger aircraft to boost capacity, despite a small dip in total aircraft movements.
Although it’s too early to tell, some say the visa scheme could shape what comes next for regional airports across the South of England.
Nationwide figures from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) show that 2025 is shaping up to be a record year for UK aviation.
The reports show that summer was the busiest on record.
They’re also expecting airports across the country to be at peak numbers during the Holidays.
Winchester News Online
Police hunt man who threw chair and threatened shoppers
A man threw a chair and threatened bystanders in the centre of Gosport on Friday.
Police say the man, who was behaving aggressively, threw the chair on the ground and shouted threats at nearby shoppers before running away. No one was injured.
It happened just before noon, outside a Greggs Bakery on the High Street.
Hampshire Police say the man was white, bald and in his late 40s. He was wearing a baseball cap and a grey hoodie.
Officers are asking anyone who saw the incident to contact them.
Winchester News Online
Police officers injured during anti-migration rally
Twelve people were arrested after 350 anti-migrant protestors clashed with police overnight in Gosport following reports of a small boat landing in the area.
A small number of officers needed medical treatment following the protests near Walpole car park.
Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dodds said: “Violence and criminal damage have no part in peaceful protest, our position on this has been clear that we will investigate thoroughly and take robust action against anyone responsible.
“Our officers did not deserve to be assaulted as they worked incredibly diligently on Sunday to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.”
Police had banned face coverings and had issued a dispersal order ahead of the protests across Gosport.
Those arrested were held on suspicion of assaulting officers or being drunk and disorderly.
The protest marks an increase in tensions within the UK after protests at Portsmouth, Taunton, Basingstoke and Glasgow in recent months.
Gosport Reform UK councilor Paul Carter told GB News: “If you think about this last night, no one really knew what was happening… I think a lot of people are really worried.”
Winchester News Online
Residents warned over closure of recycling centre
People in Romsey are being warned that the town’s recycling centre will be closing for a month for repairs.
The closure of Casbrook recycling centre will take place from 12 October to 12 November.
The council says that repairs are essential to keep the site safe, after heavy vehicles damaged the tarmac beneath waste containers.
Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council’s deputy leader, said: “We are investing in essential improvements to preserve the surface of Casbrook HWRC (Bunny Lane) and ensure the facility continues to serve residents safely and effectively for many years to come.
“I thank residents for their patience during these works and confirm that capacity is available at nearby HWRCs to ensure residents that usually use Bunny Lane, can still dispose of their waste during this time.”
Locals have been advised to use alternative centres in Winchester and Eastleigh while the repairs take place.
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