Plans for new theatre in Andover town centre submitted

The scheme is part of wider regeneration plans aimed at revitalising the town's cultural and economic landscape.

The new theatre is set to be constructed at the top of the High Street, opposite the Guildhall, on the site of the former Poundstretcher unit at the entrance to the Chantry Centre.

It has been designed by specialist theatre architects Burrell Foley Fischer and will feature a state-of-the-art multi-level auditorium with a seating capacity of more than 400, compared to the 249 at current The Lights.

There will be a performance and event space, as well as dance studios and meeting rooms which can be hired out by the public.

The theatre will have a seating capacity of more than 400. (Image: Burrell Foley Fischer/Test Valley Borough Council) The venue will have bar and café areas, as well as terrace outdoor areas.

There will be accessible seating in the circle and balcony levels.

The new theatre also aims to meet environmental standards, reducing its carbon footprint and running costs.

The venue will have two separate entrances, one directly off the High Street and the newly created 'Theatre Square', and another opposite Town Mills Riverside Park.

Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: "This is a significant step in our vision to transform Andover into a thriving, dynamic town centre.

"The new theatre will not only provide a state-of-the-art venue for the arts but also act as a catalyst for economic growth.

"It will become an icon for the town – a new public place that local people will be proud of for generations to come."

A new 'Theatre Square' will be created under the plans. (Image: Burrell Foley Fischer/Test Valley Borough Council) Helen Grassly, director at Burrell Foley Fischer, added: "Our well-attended public consultation events highlighted the importance of the new theatre to the Andover community.

"Picking up on suggestions and comments, we have tailored the facilities to meet aspirations for accessibility and welcome.

"Our new building makes the most of the town-centre site, with visible activity on all three public façades, a landscape design linking the High Street and the River Anton, and a new public square providing a focal point for community events."

A separate application to demolish the former Poundstretcher unit was approved earlier in the year, with actual demolition planned to start in late summer/early autumn.

Pending approval, construction is expected to begin in 2026, with the new venue opening in late 2027 or early 2028.

The current theatre will continue to operate as normal until the new venue opens.

The project is part of the wider Andover Masterplan and is being supported by £18.3m of funding from central government.