Andover masterplan entertainment area
Andover town centre redevelopment one step closer
Following the much-anticipated launch of the masterplan for Andover town centre earlier this month, the plans were presented at full council on September 28 and have received approval from all present elected members.
The masterplan has been twelve months in the making and was developed by nationally renowned designers, HemingwayDesign and NEW masterplanning. They consulted with more than 4000 residents, businesses, students and other stakeholders to shape the proposals for the future of the town. Now that the masterplan has received full support from councillors, Test Valley Borough Council can take the next steps in progressing with the redevelopment, which will involve appointing a development partner to help deliver major changes across the town.
The masterplan includes proposals to transform the Chantry Centre shopping mall into a mixed use space to accommodate more independent retailers and pop-up shops and create offices facilities and apartments at upper levels. A new Lights Theatre will take centre stage in the town, surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants where people can dine and relax before or after a show.
Other key changes will include creating a Wellbeing Quarter featuring a new campus for Andover College and the development of a modern outdoor space which visitors and residents can enjoy. This will become part of a new green corridor linking the River Anton to Vigo Park and will offer spectacular views of St Mary’s Church.
The River Anton will also become a more accessible green space within the town, with a new river corridor offering families the perfect place to take a stroll or enjoy a picnic and admire the wonderful river wildlife.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, councillor Phil North, said: “Since launching the masterplan a few weeks ago, we have seen an overwhelming amount of support and positive feedback from residents and businesses. So many people helped to shape and develop these plans over the past year and now that the final masterplan has come together, people have really been able to see what the future holds for Andover. I’m delighted that the masterplan has received full support from councillors and we can now look forward to making headway with the project and bring a development partner on board.”
The masterplan and three flythrough videos can be seen at www.thinkandovertowncentre.co.uk