Communities’ ambitions to be brought to life as council commits to delivering major projects across Test Valley
Communities across Test Valley are a step closer to seeing their aspirations become reality after the council approved major investment in projects that will transform public spaces, strengthen town centres and improve community facilities across the borough.
At its meeting on 14 October, Full Council approved a £67 million boost for the council’s wider Corporate Action Plan programme, which will fully fund the priority town centre regeneration projects such as the brand-new home for The Lights theatre in Andover and the new community hub and enhanced public realm in South of Town Centre in Romsey.
The decision marks another milestone in delivering the long-term vision shaped by residents, community groups and local partnerships such as Andover Vision and Romsey Future.
The funding will also support transformational projects such as the new Western Avenue Riverside Park - uncovering a hidden stretch of the River Anton, improvements to the Chantry Centre and proposals relating to the former Andover Magistrates' Court site.
The meeting also approved an extra £500,000 for Vigo Road Recreation Ground. The funding will support improvements requested by residents, including a Changing Places toilet, more shade, better security and a water recycling system for the splash park.
These projects have been shaped by extensive engagement with residents, community groups and local partners. Local feedback has influenced everything from accessibility and facilities to design and public spaces, helping to ensure the schemes reflect what communities want and need both now and in the future.
And it is not just Test Valley’s town centres that will benefit. Rural communities continue to see investment through the council’s £2 million Community Delivery Fund, which helps local people bring forward projects that matter to them. So far, the council has approved 19 schemes, with £1.1 million committed and £485,000 already paid towards completed or ongoing projects.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: "I’m delighted that Full Council unanimously backed this significant investment in our town centres and wider projects. It’s one of the biggest capital programmes in the council’s history and will be truly transformational for our communities. It’s the culmination of almost a decade’s worth of work from Andover Vision and Romsey Future and I’m really proud to get it over the line – working in a cross-party way. Crucially, it now means we can move to the delivery phase of projects like the new theatre in Andover, where construction work will be starting shortly.
"This is much more than just buildings and infrastructure though. It is about improving quality of life, creating opportunities for people to be active and connected, making our communities more inclusive and accessible, helping businesses and giving residents places they can be proud of.
"Local government reorganisation may have created uncertainty, but it has not changed our commitment to delivering for the people of Test Valley. We remain focused on the priorities residents have shared with us and on creating a better future for communities across the borough.”
The council’s finance and resources portfolio holder, Councillor Maureen Flood, added: "These investments are about delivering real benefits for residents and helping communities thrive. Whether it is creating welcoming public spaces, improving accessibility, supporting town centre regeneration or providing facilities that better meet people's needs, the programme will help transform everyday life across Test Valley.
"We have approved funding in stages as designs and costs have become clearer, supported by detailed financial analysis and a sustainable funding strategy. This means we can invest with confidence while continuing our long-standing approach of managing public money carefully and responsibly, ensuring we achieve the best possible value for our communities.
"Current forecasts show we can fund the programme from existing and expected resources up to March 2029, with no external borrowing expected. That is thanks to many years of careful financial management, which means we can continue delivering day-to-day services while progressing ambitious projects that will leave a lasting positive impact on communities throughout the borough."
Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Neil Gwynne, said: "These projects represent a significant investment in the future of Test Valley and have the potential to deliver lasting benefits for residents across the borough. It is important that, as these schemes move forward, the council continues to engage openly with communities and demonstrates clear value for money.
"We all want to see thriving town centres, high-quality public spaces and facilities that meet the needs of current and future generations. I look forward to seeing these projects progress and deliver positive outcomes for local people."