Test Valley approves £67m investment in community projects

Test Valley Borough Council has approved £67 million for priority projects, including a new home for The Lights theatre in Andover and a community hub in Romsey.

Other schemes include a Changing Places toilet and better security at Vigo Road Recreation Ground.

The investment is part of the council’s Corporate Action Plan and supports long-term regeneration plans shaped by residents, community groups, Andover Vision and Romsey Future.

Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: "I’m delighted that Full Council unanimously backed this significant investment in our town centres and wider projects.

(Image: Test Valley Borough Council)

"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."

The funding will also provide a new Western Avenue Riverside Park, improvements to the Chantry Centre and plans for the former Andover Magistrates' Court site.

Rural communities will also benefit from the council’s £2 million Community Delivery Fund for grassroots projects.

So far, 19 schemes have been approved, with £1.1 million committed and £485,000 paid out on completed or ongoing projects.

Cllr North said the investment was about more than buildings and infrastructure.

He said: "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."

Councillor Maureen Flood, the finance and resources portfolio holder, said the council had funded the programme in stages.

(Image: Test Valley Borough Council)

She said: "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."

Forecasts show the programme can be funded from existing and expected resources until March 2029, without external borrowing.

Opposition leader Councillor Neil Gwynne welcomed the investment and called for continued community engagement.

He 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."