The government’s decision on Local Government Reorganisation is expected to be announced any day now.
When it does, we will all find out which other councils Test Valley has been paired with to create new, larger unitary authorities.
As I have said before in this column, LGR is not a path I would have chosen to walk down as I’m concerned that the new authorities could become less local and more susceptible to cost pressures.
However, instead of burying our heads in the sand and be done unto we have engaged with the process to try and shape it.
Working closely with councils of different political make-ups across Hampshire to come up with what we believe is the best option for our communities.
Our proposal would see Test Valley form part of a new largely rural and market town Mid-Hampshire authority, rather than the alternative of being joined with Southampton. Whatever option the government decides, though, based on current timelines, there are two years left of Test Valley.
Consequently, I am focused on using that time to finish the job on town centre regeneration that we’ve been working so hard on in recent years.
Helped by our success in obtaining £18.3m from the previous government for a brand-new Lights theatre and public square. The support of local Member of Parliament, Kit Malthouse, was crucial in obtaining that money, and I was pleased to meet him on site last week as we marked the completion of the demolition phase of the project.
This is an important moment for Andover, paving the way for construction to start later this year and throughout 2027 and so we can get it built before Test Valley comes to an end.
The town’s regeneration isn’t just about the theatre though, we are also opening up the river Anton to create a stunning new linear park currently hidden under the Western Avenue gyratory, planning to invest heavily in the Chantry Centre to make it fit for 21st century shopping, dealing with the vacant former magistrates court and creating a new community pavilion and splash pad in Vigo Park. Coming hot on the heels of the new playground that was opened last year.
The planned £3.5m investment in Vigo Recreation Ground will see a new home for the bowls club, community pavilion, refreshment kiosk, secure public toilets and a water play attraction. To make sure the designs reflect what the community wants, we are holding a series of drop-in sessions where you can ask questions and share your views.
The next session is Saturday, March 14, between 10am and 3pm in the former 02 unit. There is also another session planned for March 28.
To ensure the new facilities are accessible and inclusive, the council is also working closely with groups such as Purple Oak, Koala and Yellow Brick Road, whose insights will help shape a space that reflects the needs of Andover.
So, despite the uncertainty that’s on the horizon, this is an exciting time for Andover, and I’m determined to deliver it in the time we have left.
Phil North
Leader Test Valley Borough Council
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