A new act begins: site cleared for Andover’s theatre as demolition completes
Work to prepare the site for Andover’s new theatre has reached another milestone, with demolition of the former Poundstretcher building now complete.
The old store has been carefully dismantled over recent months by specialist demolition contractor, Erith, making way for the next phase of the project.
A planned gap between demolition and construction was built into the programme to allow time to address any unforeseen issues that might have arisen during demolition and to protect the main build schedule. With demolition completed successfully, the site is now ready for construction to start once a contractor is appointed.
Test Valley Borough Council expects to announce the appointment of the contractor this spring, with construction due to start later this year.
Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: “This is an important moment for Andover. Completing demolition clears the way for construction to begin, bringing us closer to delivering the new theatre that local people have asked for.
“I’d like to thank Erith and the demolition team for the professional way they’ve managed the site. They’ve kept the area safe, maintained excellent communication, and worked hard to minimise disruption for residents and nearby businesses.
“You can now really start to see the future taking shape. We’re looking forward to appointing a main contractor soon and beginning the build.”
Kit Malthouse, Member of Parliament for North West Hampshire, added: "Standing on the site today, you can feel the momentum. The old walls are down and something genuinely transformative is about to rise in their place. Andover is getting a proper theatre, a venue that will pull people into our town centre, fill our restaurants and shops, create jobs, and give us all a big reason to show up in the High Street. But this isn't just about one building. It's the spark for wider regeneration across the town. Phil North and the team deserve real credit. On time, on budget, and delivering something Andover will be talking about for decades.”
Aaron Porter, Project Manager at Erith, said: “We’re proud to have supported this project, and have worked closely with the council to keep the site safe and disruption to a minimum. Preparing the site for the next phase has been a real team effort, and it’s exciting to see the demolition now complete.”
As a result of careful planning and management, around 99% of the materials from the existing building were recycled. These materials were either reused on site or transferred to be used on other construction projects.
The new theatre will include a state-of-the-art multi-level auditorium seating over 400 people - a significant increase from the 249 seats available at the current theatre. There will also be a separate, flexible performance and event space, a range of dance studios, and meeting rooms which can be hired out by the public. The new theatre will offer flexible social spaces for visitors, with café and bar areas at either end of the building, and terraced outdoor areas will provide inviting spots in which to relax during the warmer months.
The theatre will play a central role in enhancing Andover’s daytime and evening economy, drawing more people into the town centre to support local businesses.
Construction of the new theatre is expected to complete in early 2028, with the current theatre continuing to operate as normal until the new venue is ready to open, ensuring continuity for audiences and performers.
The project is part of the wider Andover masterplan, which sets out a long-term vision to create a thriving town centre - and is being supported by £18.3 million of funding from central government, secured to accelerate key regeneration projects in the town. It will play a central role in creating a more vibrant, welcoming and resilient town centre for residents, businesses and visitors.
Find out more and view the full design proposals at: https://www.thinkandovertowncentre.co.uk/theatre
View the demolition timelapse video, here: https://youtu.be/MeLIUyvQLSQ